The Direct Care Workforce Collaborative (DCWC) is an advocacy group created by the Aging and Long-Term Support Administration (ALTSA) with the purpose to give a voice to people providing direct care services across the state. This forum allows caregivers from all settings to engage in conversations about the benefits and challenges of providing direct care and to provide feedback about proposals to ALTSA that will impact caregivers.
DCWC Focus Areas
The DCWC is responsible for providing feedback to and partnering with HCLA as we develop recommendations and policies regarding:
- Caregiver recruitment strategies
- Caregiver retention strategies
- Caregiver training
- Career and professional development
- Data gathering and analysis
- Regulations
- Caregiver supports
- Programs and services for clients that impact caregivers
- Cutting edge programs and new technologies
- Identifying opportunities to improve job quality of caregivers
- Promoting community involvement in rebranding of direct care workers
Meetings
The DCWC meets virtually bimonthly on the 3rd Thursday from 2 to 4 pm.
Membership
The DCWC is comprised of up to 20 members to include Home Care Aides, Certified Nursing Assistants, or Individual Providers who help older adults and people with disabilities to work and live where they want, including individual homes, assisted living facilities, nursing facilities, and adult family homes.
Contact Information
If you have additional questions or need assistance, please contact:
- Jennifer Phillips, Strategic Engagement Manager, jennifer.phillips3@dshs.wa.gov
- Alia Granger, Strategic Improvement Manager, alia.granger@dshs.wa.gov
ALTSA values the diverse caregiver experience. We are committed to equity, diversity, access, and inclusion. ALTSA staff will give DCWC members accommodations and supports to attend each meeting.