Virginia Regulatory Town Hall
Agency
Department of Medical Assistance Services
 
Board
Board of Medical Assistance Services
 
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7/7/23  10:31 pm
Commenter: Anonymous

Low Hourly Rate and Potential Hardships
 

The hourly rate for care attendants is currently at an offensively low level, making it nearly impossible to find skilled individuals willing to work for minimum wage. Even qualified nursing providers struggle to find jobs that offer a higher hourly wage. This low rate has resulted in a high turnover of nurses, with the author's family having gone through four nurses in the past two years. In its current form, the program has been a lifeline for the author's family, allowing them to care for their twins while earning some income. Quitting a job to stay home and provide complex care for the children was necessary due to their medical needs and frequent doctor appointments. It is crucial to consider the potential financial hardships that these proposed changes may impose on families, which could ultimately lead to increased reliance on public services. It is essential to question whether the cost savings associated with these changes outweigh the potential negative consequences for families.

CommentID: 217813