Introduction to Size and Characteristics of the PAS Workforce

The workforce providing noninstitutional personal assistance and home health services tripled between 1989 and 2004, according to U.S. survey data, growing at a much faster rate than the population needing such services. During the same period, Medicaid spending for such services increased dramatically, while both workforce size and spending for similar services in institutional settings remained relatively stable. Low wage levels for personal assistance workers, which have fallen behind those of comparable occupations; scarce health benefits; and high job turnover rates highlight the need for greater attention to ensuring a stable and well-trained workforce to meet growing demand.

In this paper we use data from two federal surveys of the U.S. population to assess both the size of the workforce providing paid personal assistance services and the relative growth of that workforce compared with the population needing such services. We are aware of no prior studies that address work-force growth over time, including both agency and independent personal assistance providers, and compare that growth to the demand for services. We also confirm earlier findings of low wage levels, adding to the literature a comparison of wage growth compared with that in similar occupations, and we assess other job factors likely to limit the future growth of the personal assistance workforce.

To read the full paper, please visit:
http://pascenter.org/publications/item.php?id=463