SETTING THE STAGE FOR A LONG-TERM CARE TRAINING FUND
SEIU Healthcare 775NW in Washington State has nearly 34,000 members in long-term care, primarily homecare. The Local is now preparing for a major addition with the building of a training and education fund, in coordination with 1199NW, with 22,000 members in hospitals and health systems.
David Rolf, President of SEIU Healthcare 775NW, spoke with SEIU Healthcare News about the plan:
"We're trying to create a new, higher level of education for long-term care," "We hope to give our members access to a career ladder to pursue careers in healthcare. This will also help solve the labor shortage in the industry.
"We are still developing the program and believe that we will have the most advanced long-term care training program in the country, if not the world. Just as most nursing home workers are credentialed CNAs, we want to create a credentialed homecare worker.
"This has been the goal of our Local since 2006. We are very involved with the Governor and the Legislature. Our members testified before the legislature. We've had serious lobbying efforts during the past two sessions. There is a 'purple presence' every single day in the state capitol, in addition to which we have full mobilizations for Lobby Days.
"The legislation for the fund was passed in 2007. This year the legislature will set the number of hours for certification, as well as many places will be available, how many languages, etc.
"By 2010, we will have the structure in place-a Taft-Hartley Fund similar to the 1199SEIU Training and Upgrading Fund in New York, Maryland and Massachusetts. We are also beginning to develop the curriculum. In 2010, we will begin basic training and also a mentorship program to coach new homecare workers in order to reduce burnout. Most turn over in homecare takes place in the first six month of employment.
"By 2012, we will have advanced training and an apprenticeship program, and with tuition credits and reimbursement .for higher education-with contributions from state employers, private homecare agencies and nursing homes."