Program
Commonwealth Corporation works in conjunction with the Nursing Home Quality Initiative to enhance the quality of long-term care in Massachusetts. We assist long-term care employers in the design of unique education opportunities, career ladders, and positive workplace practices which lead to improved patient care and employee retention rates in their facilities. Direct-care workers, managers, and supervisors receive occupational training.
Need
The quality of service for seniors and disabled individuals suffers due to high employee turnover and chronic worker shortages. Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) have demanding careers that are vital to the industry, but they frequently move on to other jobs because they have few opportunities for professional, economic, or educational advancement.
Solution
The Extended Care Career Ladders Initiative (ECCLI) addresses the recruitment and retention of nursing staff by providing them with flexible educational opportunities and incentives. A framework for Nursing Home Quality was also implemented in order to encourage better workplace conditions for CNAs while simultaneously promoting workplace culture change.
Impact
Since 2000, ECCLI has helped more than 160 nursing homes and home health agencies train over 7,500 individuals. ECCLI sites report improved worker retention rates and reductions in the cost of doing business, while improving the quality of patient care. Direct-care workers who completed at least one training module have received a wage increase at an average of $1.05 per hour.
