Impact of the personal and home care aide state training program on quality of care and retention of direct care professionals in Iowa

The intent of the Personal and Home Care Aide State Training program (PHCAST) is to standardize training of the Direct Care Professional (DCP), increase retention in a profession with high turnover rates and prepare DCPs for credentialing. The three year evaluation of the effectiveness of the training and its impact on retention was completed using a quasi-experimental design with 11 experimental agencies and 3 control groups. Quantitative data was collected using a Pre-assessment tool, post-tests from each training module, monthly retention data, and profession/job satisfaction survey data which was collected at six, nine and 12 months. Additional qualitative data to measure program facilitator and consumer satisfaction was collected through interviews. Curriculum development included a CORE module, required for all new DCPs, which focused on essential concepts all new workers need regardless of the employment setting (professionalism, person-centered care, communication, infection control, safety, and documentation). Additional training modules were developed that would help develop specific types of knowledge and skills that could be applied when working with consumers regardless of the employment setting (ex: home and community living, personal support, instrumental activities of daily living, and personal activities of daily living). All experimental participants completed the PHCAST CORE training module. Follow-up phone interviews for those who left employment were conducted. Qualitative data from the interviews were coded and analyzed. The success of the PHCAST program suggests adoption of the PHCAST curriculum and standardized certification will increase knowledge, maintain or increase retention of DCPs, and ensure a well-qualified workforce in Iowa.