Direct Care Worker Retention During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Author Information
Author(s): Katherine Miller, Yang Shen, Karen Yang
Primary Institution: Johns Hopkins University
Hypothesis
Did state wage-support policies effectively mitigate the effects of the pandemic on direct care worker exits?
Conclusion
Wage support policies were not associated with direct care worker retention or exits during or after the pandemic.
Supporting Evidence
- Direct care worker shortages and high turnover were visible during the pandemic.
- Exits were highest in 2020, primarily due to unemployment or leaving the labor force.
- In 2021-2022, exits decreased relative to pre-pandemic periods.
Takeaway
This study looked at how many direct care workers left their jobs during the pandemic and found that state policies didn't help keep them from leaving.
Methodology
The study analyzed data from the Annual Social and Economic Supplement of the Current Population Survey from 2016-2022 to assess direct care worker exits.
Limitations
The study may not account for all factors influencing worker retention and exits.
Participant Demographics
Direct care workers in long-term care industries.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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