Direct services workers* in Maryland and DC struggle in low-quality jobs and are increasingly moving to other sectors that offer better wages and benefits, and other advantages. This research brief provides a statistical snapshot of the direct services workforce in Maryland and DC.
* “Direct services workers” refers to “direct care workers,” as defined by PHI. This term was used for this research brief to support a state-level initiative in Maryland led by stakeholders who preferred this terminology.
Key Takeaways
From 2014 to 2024, Maryland will need nearly 40 percent more direct services workers and DC will need 35 percent more workers to meet growing LTSS needs.
Nearly 1 in 5 direct services workers in DC and more than 1 in 10 in Maryland live in poverty.
At least 1 in 10 direct services workers in Maryland (16 percent) and DC (10 percent) lacks health insurance.
Kezia Scales leads PHI’s strategy for building the evidence base on state and national policies and workforce interventions that improve direct care jobs, elevate this essential workforce, and strengthen care processes and outcomes.
