I’ve been a direct care worker for over a decade, caring for our elderly members of society so they can stay in their homes. They just do better at home, where they’re most comfortable, and the Medicaid-funded Home and Community Based Services that give them that choice are important.
But the way things are now – it’s broken. When I started, I was receiving just $11 an hour, not even enough to pay my own bills. How is it that I can work 11-hour days and still be unable to provide for myself?
Because even though my work is paid by Medicaid funds, workers like me who provide the critical hands-on assistance, are not seeing enough of those funds go to our wages. I work hard every day – I deserve those funds.
Workers have been pushing for change for DECADES, and now the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) is trying to change things so workers get 80% of the public funds spent on the personal care services we provide. John this would change my life 100%.
So I'm working with NDWA to collect statements to submit as a public comment to DHHS. We need you, John, to show your support and share your input for this change by June 26th — every person who supports workers like me will make a huge difference. Add your comment today.
The work I do matters, and my paycheck should reflect that. Changing this rule is just common sense, because being unable to pay your bills when you’re a full-time direct care worker makes NO sense.
I’m very proud of my work, especially when my clients tell the agency that they only want me coming to care for them. Medicaid funding is for care, which means it should go to the people who are doing the work of care.
Changing the Department of Health and Human Services rule would be a life-changer for me and care workers I know. Show your support for this change by adding a comment in the next five days before the comment period ends.
Thank you.
Arnetta, care worker
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