HCAOA The Voice Summer 2020

8 HCAOA The Voice FEATURE ARTICLE DECREASED SERVICE HOURS AND LACK OF PPE have been constant thorns in the side of home care agencies throughout the initial stages of COVID-19. Those two problems were ranked as the top two issues facing our members in surveys conducted in March and April . From the early stages of the pandemic, a smaller percentage of home care agencies reported that their caregivers were asking for emergency paid medical leave as provided in the CARES Act (42% in March compared to 34% in April). “What we’re seeing as an industry, is a very committed workforce staring with our leader to our frontline workers,” said Executive Director Vicki Hoak. “We are the community of providers that can protect older Americans from the disease and prevent the spread of COVID-19.” And agencies have seen a marked uptick in employees either exhibiting symptoms or noting exposure to the virus. In March, 19% of members said that their employees have reported symptoms. The following month, 43% claimed that their employees have reported COVID exposure. Those agencies that have reported exposures are snapping to action, with roughly two-thirds reporting in April that they communicate immediately with clients and staff providing specific instructions to prevent the further spread of the disease. HCAOA will continue to monitor how the industry is responding throughout the pandemic. In addition, HCAOA presented a three- part Webinar series outlining how agencies can provide care for COVID patients. To view those, click here . Surveys Show Home Care Agencies’ Commitment to Delivering Care During Pandemic Early October 2020 The 2020 HCAOA Annual Leadership Conference GOES DIGITAL In early October, we’re making it easier than ever to get the robust content that only HCAOA can provide. Take this great opportunity to: • Learn new competitive strategies • Discover cutting-edge practices • Network with key innovators across the Home Care industry Keep an eye on our events page for updates: HCAOA.org/Events The 2020 HCAOA Conference is going Virtual