The Home Health Industry is hurting for workers. In many states the number of certified home health aides is so low that it represents a real crisis. Home health agencies know that if they don’t do something about it soon, it’s going to get worse. In addition to trying to retain the workers they have with cash bonuses, Home Health Agencies realize that they must also attract younger people into a field that is dominated by middle-aged and older women.

To do this, Home Health Agencies have recognized that prospects need more help to qualify, particularly with school diplomas and language skills. Many are now providing pilot classes to assist applicants in obtaining high school equivalency diplomas (GEDs) and passing exams in English-as-a-Second Language (ESL). Agencies have also recognized that many existing workers have not been able to take advantage of individual scholarships offered to them because they have not graduated from high school.

All aides must have some degree of English proficiency to be hired by agencies. Offering GED and ESL classes will not only increase the ability to better care for patients, but it also increases aides’ chances to stay in health care. Agencies are forming alliances with schools throughout the nation to provide classes in the evening along with other Adult Educational programs.

Offering opportunities for educational advancement can also help dispel the perception that home health care jobs are “dead-end jobs.” Financial incentives are now part of many packages.

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