Connecticut Addresses Home Health Care Workers' Safety with Public Act 24-19
This past May, the Connecticut state legislature and Governor Ned Lamont took the first steps towards addressing unsafe work environments for healthcare workers through Public Act 24-19, also known as An Act Concerning the Health and Safety of Connecticut Residents. The legislation focuses on improving the health and safety of Connecticut’s vulnerable and underserved populations as well as the home health care workers who serve them.
Creating the In-Home Safety Grant Program was vital to addressing concerns about increased violence against home health care workers. The program provides funds to home health providers for improved safety protocols.
Home Health Care Workers Face Unique Safety Risks
Home health workers are the backbone of care for Connecticut’s elderly and disabled populations. They provide vital services such as bathing, feeding, therapy and more within the home for individuals who find traveling to receive treatment difficult or impossible.
Because of the unique nature of their services, they are at an increased risk of workplace violence.
As many as 65% of home health care providers have reported experiencing verbal abuse, with up to 41% reporting sexual harassment and between 2.5% and 44% experiencing physical assaults, according to the CDC.
As the industry continues to grow, so do the reports of workplace violence.
Safety Measure Covered Under Public Act 24-19
The state hopes funds dispersed through the In-Home Safety Grant Program will significantly decrease violence against home health providers and reduce the number of workplace injuries, resulting in fewer worker compensation claims, higher employee retention and satisfaction and superior care.
The program will allocate grants to home health and access agencies to enhance worker safety by funding proactive and reactive measures. Funded solutions include:
- Emergency alert systems.
- Buddy escort programs.
- Tracking devices.
- Safety training.
- Risk assessment tools.
- Safety consultants.
- Establishing dedicated phone lines for immediate field support.
How to Secure Funding Under Public Act 24-19
The Connecticut General Assembly and Governor Lamont initially allocated $6 million to the program. The state secured funds from the federal American Rescue Plan Act for the initial wave of grants.
Grant applications opened for the In-Home Safety Grant Program on August 7, 2024. Eligible agencies can complete the online application at portal.ct.gov/dss/common-elements/home-and-community-based-services.
Agencies can expect to see funds dispersed as early as late October.
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