Nursing home administrators (NHAs) play critical roles in assuring quality care for the elderly. To better understand these roles, preparation for licensure, and perceptions of the education needed to be an effective administrator, the Center conducted a study of NHAs in New York in 2000. The study included: a survey of active New York State NHA licensees; a survey of a sample of inactive New York State NHA licensees; and interviews with stakeholders. The study found that: · Nursing homes suffer from a reputation as less desirable work venues than hospitals. This make recruiting and retention of workers more difficult at all levels. · The gap between the training required for the NHA licensing exam and the knowledge required of a successful NHA is growing as the “medicalization” of long-term care continues. · The biggest shortcoming in preparation is lack of on-the-job experience. Administrator-In-Training programs are often unpaid positions which many candidates cannot afford. · Thirty percent of active NHAs reported that they plan to leave their position in the next five years, including more than 25% of NHAs less than 40 years old. · More than half of active NHAs reported that problems recruiting new staff or retaining existing staff were limiting quality of care. · Surveillance systems should distinguish between critical problems related to patient care and minor infractions not related to patient safety. Without additional supports for nursing home administrators, the nation is likely to face a shortage of qualified nursing home administrators. See chws.albany.edu
Learning Objectives: N/A
Keywords: Nursing Homes, Workforce
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: Center for Health Workforce Studies
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.