Direct-Care Worker Shortage Focus of New Hampshire Commission
A statewide shortage of direct-care workers and other healthcare professionals in New Hampshire has prompted Gov. Maggie Hassan (D) to create a special commission to study the problem and offer solutions.
In an April 29 press release announcing the Governor’s Commission on Health Care Workforce, Hassan said:
“New Hampshire is facing a healthcare workforce shortage in fields ranging from direct-care workers to pediatric nurses to psychologists, which is increasingly threatening our ability to meet the health care needs of our citizens and making it harder to provide home- and community-based care to New Hampshire residents.”
The 15-member commission will be led by Manchester Community College President Susan Huard. Other members include nursing assistant Brenda Howard, AARP New Hampshire State Director Todd Fahey, and Lisa DiMartino, whose child receives long-term services and supports.
The commission is expected to study recruitment and retention methods, enhanced training opportunities, and potential changes to rate and payment structures.
It is expected to deliver its final report by December.
— by Matthew Ozga
