Number: RL31090
Title: Long-Term Care: Nursing and Paraprofessional Workforce Issues
Authors: Julie Stone and Rachel W. Kelly, Domestic Social Policy Division 
Abstract: There have been widespread accounts of hospitals, nursing homes and other facilities having great difficulty attracting and retaining nursing and paraprofessional personnel. This problem may be the result of a variety of factors, including the strong economy which has increased competition among providers within the health care sector and expanded opportunities for work in other sectors. Studies have shown that such difficulties can also be attributed to relatively low wages, limited or no employee benefits, and insufficient opportunities for professional development (such as promotions and training opportunities) offered to paraprofessionals. These problems are especially acute in the long-term care sector where nursing homes and home health agencies play a major role. This report focuses on the care provided by these providers.
Pages: 21
Date: Updated December 18, 2002