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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE |
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CONTACT: Amy Giancoli Hartman |
State Rep. Edward Wojnaroski Sr. |
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Wojnaroski reintroduces bill to offer specialized training
for direct-care workers
HARRISBURG, April 4 – Recognizing the special care that people with dementia, Alzheimer's disease or behavioral problems need, state Rep. Edward Wojnaroski Sr., D-Cambria, has reintroduced a bill that would set up a training program for staff who provide this type of specialized care.
"This proposal would help maintain the quality of life for those needing long-term care services, by offering specialized training to help ensure the most qualified workers," Wojnaroski said.
The Direct Care Advanced Training Program (H.B. 1034), established within the Education Department, would consist of certification in three areas:
- behavioral care: for patients with dementia, Alzheimer's disease, mental illness or behavioral problems;
- restorative care: for patients undergoing rehabilitation; and
- leadership: for team-building, advanced communication, organizational and supervisory skills.
Workers would have to pass a test demonstrating proficiency in both classroom training and practical training in each category.
"A person with Alzheimer's or dementia, or someone who needs to learn how to use their legs again after a stroke requires very specific health-care needs, and this program will help direct-care workers provide the level of care that is needed," Wojnaroski said.
In addition, Wojnaroski said the measure would provide compensation for the extra training those workers receive, including tuition reimbursement and a $600 payment for successful completion of the program.
The bill passed the House last session but failed to be considered by the Senate.
Wojnaroski also has introduced a bill to certify long-term care facilities that provide services to cognitively impaired patients. That bill is currently before the House Health and Human Services Committee.
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