hub newsletter june 2009 - iowa caregivers kinzel, vice chair maribel slinde, treasurer mary ann...

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Iowa CareGivers Association does not discriminate in its educational programs and activities on the basis of race, creed, national origin, ancestry, color, religion, sex, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation or any other protected class under relevant state and federal laws.

Advertising Policy

Not all information sent to us for publication will be used. Materials or advertising printed in this publication does not mean an endorsement by the Iowa CareGivers Association (ICA). All advertising is subject to ICA approval. We do not run job listings. We do run ads promoting facilities or agencies and any special programs for CNAs or other direct care workers which would be of special interest to our members and other readers. If you would like to submit materials or ads for publication, please contact us at 515-223-2805 or by email at [email protected].

Iowa CareGIvers assoCIatIon

HUB newsletter

Look inside for articles, information, and much more...

Please remember to update us if you have any name or contact information changes, so that you can continue to receive the ICA HUB and other program announcements. Thank you.

Iowa CareGivers AssociationDirect Care Worker Resource and Outreach Center1211 Vine Street, Suite 1000West Des Moines, Iowa 50265

nOnpROfIt ORGAnIzAtIOnU.S. pOStAGe pAID

DeS MOIneS, IApeRMIt nO. 5294 return service

requested

notice:the icA Hub will no longer be mailed to health and long term care providers in order to reduce costs. the only providers to receive the newsletter will be those who express their support of direct care workers by becoming a Keystone contributor. For more information about how to become a Keystone contributor, please call the ICA office at 515-223-2805 or email [email protected].

THE HUBJune 2009

Iowa CareGivers Association Newsletter: Delivering information to those who are at the center of quality care

Enhancing the quality of care by providing education, recognition, advocacy and

research in support of direct care workers.

This newsletter is made possible by the Iowa Department of Public Health and United States Department of Human Services (USDHS) Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) Grant #1D1DHP10751-01-00

Public Forum Spotlights Iowa’s Need to Brace for a Care Gap

See page 2.

Annual Conference for Direct Care Workers to be heldFrIdAy, OCtOber 9, 2009

Location: Mercy Medical Center, east

tower, Des Moines, IA

See page 9 for more clues about this event.

IOwA CAregIvers AssOCIAtIOn seCures $329,670 In FundIng

Di Findley, executive Director of the iowa careGivers Association, recently announced that the association has secured $329,670 in federal funding. this funding is to advance icA’s mission of enhancing the quality of care throughout the state by providing policy and practice initiatives designed for a sector of the health and long term care workforce that inevitably nearly all Iowa families will rely upon --the direct care worker. Funding was made possible through the efforts of senator tom Harkin (d-IA), and was included in the Omnibus Appropriations Act of 2009.

“the icA mission and vision are built upon the premise that the maintenance of a stable, well educated, trained, respected and compensated direct care workforce is vital to the safety and well-being of older iowans, persons with disabilities, and all iowans,” said Findley. “this

investment in icA will help us continue the work previously supported by Senator Harkin to expand the Direct care Worker Resource and outreach center, the Direct care

Worker Mentor Program, and other initiatives. if we can address the needs of direct care workers, they can address the needs of the iowans who rely upon them for care and support.”

Harkin, a senior member of the Senate Appropriations committee and chairman of the Labor, Health and Human Services, and education Appropriations sub-committee commented, “Caregivers tend to our loved ones on a daily basis. these are the people we trust to provide simple remedies for daily ailments, to provide care in the midst of uncertainty and dignity in the midst of decline. i can think of no profession more deserving of our support. that’s why i’m proud to secure vital funding that gives those direct care workers the help they need to support iowa families.”

“These are the people we trust to provide simple remedies for daily ailments, to provide care in the midst of uncertainty and dignity in the midst of decline.” --Senator Tom Harkin (D-IA)

DAy At tHe StAte cAPitoL2009

See page 4 for more on this event.

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Public Forum

Rachel Pender’s caregiver, Jolene Hunt, Rachel, and Jim Pender.

John Hale, ICA Policy Director; Michelle Holst, IDPH; Jennifer Furler, SPPG; Julie McMahon, IDPH

ICA Board Members,Tom Carpenter and Ivan Lyddon

Pictured below: (L to R) Front Row: Julianne Carson, Warren County Health Services; Mollie Cooney, KCCI-TV8; Bruce Koeppl, AARP Back Row: Anthony Wells, Direct Care Worker; Dean Lerner, Director, Iowa Department of Inspections and Appeals; Gene Gessow, Former Director, Iowa Department of Human Services; Senator Jack Hatch, Des Moines; Tom Newton, Director, Iowa Department of Public Health; John McCalley, Director, Iowa Department of Elder Affairs; Jim Pender, Family Advocate. Not pictured: Paul Turner, AMOS and Dr. Robert Denson, DMACC.

Public Forum SPotlightS iowa’S Need to brace For the care gaP

“Mid Iowa Health foundation is interested in identifying unmet health care needs in our community. We support finding solutions to gaps, particularly in the area of access to care.”

Kathy Bradley, President, Mid-Iowa Health Foundation

I’m one of 60,000 to 100,000 direct care workers (DCWs) in Iowa, but most don’t know who we are or what we do until they need one of us. We are faced with what some refer to as a “care gap” which simply means that the number of people needing care is growing at a time when those available to provide the care is dwindling.

Just because one has access to health care coverage doesn’t mean one has access to care. That’s not possible without a stable health and long term care workforce. This forum is meant to spotlight how complex direct care workforce issues are:

access to care issuespublic safety issuesworkforce and economic development issuessocial justice issuesquality life and quality care issues...for those receiving and giving care

Excerpt from opening comments by Anthony C. Wells, CNA, CHPNA

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couldn’t Attend the Forum, But interested?

A video featuring each of the panelists’ comments will be posted on the ICA’s new website in July. In addition, a video entitled “ Iowa Braces for the Care Gap: Building a Stable Direct Care Workforce” will also be posted on our website soon. If you have any questions, please call the ICA office at 515-223-2805.

ICA Board of Directors2009

Marshall porter, ChairAnne Kinzel, Vice Chair

Maribel Slinde, treasurerMary Ann Young, Secretary

nancy Andersontom Carpenter

Kim DownsBetty Grandquist

Colleen JollyIvan Lyddon

Maribel Slinde

AdvisorsShirley Sorenson

Margaret Swanson

ICA Direct Care WorkerLeadership Council

MembersRenee BernierVicki ericksonDiane frerichsVicky Garske

tracy HovelandCindy Ramer

Laura Schroederpatty SweseyAnthony Wells

ICA Staff:Heidee Barrett McConnell

Education and Outreach Specialist

pam BiklenProgram Director, Contributing Editor

terry fankhauserFinance Director

Di findleyExecutive Director

John Hale Policy Director

Lin Salasberry Direct Care Worker Outreach Coordinator

Georgeanna SpagnolaData Management Assistant

Iowa CareGivers Association1211 Vine Street, Suite 1000West Des Moines, IA 50265

Ph: 515-223-2805Toll Free: 888-710-2762

Fax: 515-226-3214email: [email protected]

Website: www.iowacaregivers.org

National/Community Resources

oral caNcer aNd what You Need to KNow

What are the risk factors? the two main risk factors are tobacco use and alcohol consumption. Other risks include prolonged sun exposure, human papillomavirus infection, poor diet/hygiene, and a weakened immune system.

What to look for?The most common sites for oral cancer are the tongue, the floor of the mouth, lips, and salivary glands. Look for changes in these areas:

Sores that bleed easily or don’t heal in two weeksSwelling, lumps, or crusty area in the mouth areaWhite or red spot lesions that do not go away in a couple of weeksProlonged pain or tenderness of the jaw/tongue or difficulty with normal oral functions

What you can do? the nature of oral cancer underscores the need for dental checkups. If you have clients/patients with risk factors or the symptoms listed above, refer them to a dentist. there are new, painless, and relatively inexpensive technologies that can further evaluate and make a definitive diagnosis before it is too late.

Delta Dental of Iowa offers an individual dental insurance for individuals and families that do not have access to group dental benefits. Plans start at $17 per month. For more information go to www.deltadentalia.com or call 1-877-423-3582 ext. 3.

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MeDicAL FoSteR HoMe PRoGRAMUS DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS

VA CENTRAL IOWA HEALTH CARE

An affordable option for Veterans who cannot live independently, but would like to remain in a homelike setting.

to learn more about this program and the requirements, please contact

the Medical Foster Home Program coordinator at 515-699-5715 or email: janice.o’[email protected]

CENTRAL IOWA SAVES A free program to help Iowans in

Central Iowa achieve their financial goals (such as home ownership, school tuition, retirement, or debt

repayment).

To learn more about this program:

http://www.centraliowasaves.orgor

Email: [email protected]

Call: 515-283-0940

Jill Hamilton, Corporate Communications, Delta Dental of Iowa

Thank you to the Delta Dental of Iowa Foundation for awarding the ICA an $8,000 grant to help sponsor our conference in the fall.

ICA ‘s ROC WebsiteComing Soon

Redesigned ICA Website with:A new looknew navigation categoriesnew information and resourcesVideo clipsAnd more

Look for it to go live sometime in July.

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ICA Programs: Mentor Program

ICA Programs: End of Life Program

thoughtS oN SPiritual care at eNd-oF-liFe by Linda SimontonDo Direct Care Workers provide spiritual care for their residents/patients at the end of their lives? “Yes” said Direct Care Workers in home care, nursing homes, and hospice. These Direct Care Workers participated in a focus group on end-of-life care sponsored by Des Moines University, Hospice of Central Iowa, and the Iowa CareGivers Association through a grant from the Mid-Iowa Health Foundation.

Here’s what else Direct Care Workers had to say about spiritual care for their residents/patients at the end of their lives:It’s important to do more listening than talking – to be a confidential “sounding board.” Let the resident/patient lead the conversation about their spiritual beliefs. the beliefs may be different from yours, so it’s important to accept that everyone has a right to their own beliefs. When the resident/patient has a different faith tradition or culture from yours, it can be an opportunity to learn about it.

Several Direct Care Workers said it’s hard for them to know what to say when the person they are caring for says, “I just want to die.” It can be difficult to know if the person really wants to die or if they are lonely and need attention. ICA is suggesting this as a topic for a Direct Care Worker educational program.

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June2: Conference Planning Committee10: ICA Staff Retreat9: DCW Leadership Council Meeting17, 18: Regional Mentor Program (Creston, SWCC)24: Executive Committee Meeting24, 25: Regional Mentor Program (Waterloo, Hawkeye)30: Mentor Program Instructor Regroup

July3-10: ICA Offices Closed15: ICA Board Meeting29: 2010 Program Planning Meeting

August4: Conference Planning Committee

September1: Conference Planning Committee10: DCW Leadership Council Meeting11: ICA Strategic Planning (Board, Council, Staff)30: Executive Committee Meeting

october8: DCW Leadership Council Workshop8: Reception/Annual Meeting9: ICA Annual Conference (Des Moines)22: ICA Staff Retreat

november3: Conference Committee Follow-up5: DCW Leadership Council Meeting

December16: Executive Committee Meeting

ICA Programs: Calendar for Remainder of 2009

“A Call to Mentoring” is a two-day workshop for direct care workers. the program addresses two needs of direct care workers:

the need for better and more meaningful orientations, and;the need for direct care workers who have been in the field for awhile to have an opportunity to advance within their field.

1.2.

Congratulations to these certified ICA Mentor Program

Instructors:Victor Palmer, Hawkeye Community College

Linda Simonton, ICA ConsultantMarilyn Stille, Northwest Iowa Community

College

One of the first steps in beginning an ICA mentor program in your organization is to have supervisory staff and administration attend the ICA Mentor Managment Class. The photo at left is the Mentor Management group from February 5 in Des Moines.

Future of the Mentor Program: It is the goal of the ICA to work with a few additional community colleges over the next couple of years to eventually include the Mentor program into their regular class schedules.

The ICA Mentor Program has proven to help

reduce staff turnover.

Watch future newsletters for a schedule of regional meetings.

Open House

iowa caregiverS aSSociatioN direct care worKer reSource aNd outreach ceNter (roc)

oPeN houSe Photo tour

thaNKS to lou cathcart, iNterior deSigNer, for assisting the Iowa CareGivers Association to transform our new

location to reflect our mission, increase our efficiency, and to

welcome and inspire those we serve.

You, too, can change your workspace affordably.

Contact Lou atpostsprawl Design

[email protected]

the addition of warm wall colors from paint purchased by ICA Board Members and Staff, donated furniture from the principal financial Group, and a few personal affects transformed the DCW ROC into a location more accessible to you. the new location at 1211 Vine Street #1000 will enable the ICA to expand our ability to provide you with the information and support you need to flourish in your chosen career of direct care. The photo tour below takes you through our new office space. The design of our hallways incorporates our mission and highlights photos of direct care workers, the heart of our association. Another feature is more meeting space for our educational programs, forums, and meetings. If you didn’t make the open house, drop by to see us.

Pam Biklen, Program Director

Di Findley, Executive Director

Di shows off the new resource area to Terry Fankhauser, Finance Director.

Georgeanna Spagnola, Data Management Asst.

At right: Connie Stevens, volunteer and Di make work of cutting postcards.

Heidee Barrett-McConnell, Education and Outreach Specialist, teaching a workshop.

At left: John Hale, Policy Director, conducts a training on advocacy.

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Policy

the Iowa CareGivers Association “2009 Day at the Capitol” held on January 26, 2009, was a success.

You’re On Your Own the message to legislators this year was “You’re On Your Own”...unless you continue to take the next steps to ensure that there are enough qualified direct care workers to meet the needs of you, your loved ones, and all Iowans requiring care and supportive services.

Let’s take the next steps together to make a difference indirect care worker wages access to adequate health care benefits for direct care workerseducational standards for direct care workers

the “YoYo” theme was a fun way to get a very serious message out to those who are making decisions that affect you, me, and all of our loved ones.

Here’s what some of you had to say about your experience:

Just wanted to tell you what a wonderful experience yesterday was. Janda and I got to talk with our legislators and relayed how important 2539 [legislation] is to direct care workers. They were very receptive and wanted us to know that they would work on getting that bill through.

Sandy Ricklefs, HCA

Thank you for encouraging us to attend this informative session!!! I’m so much more interested in, and motiviated about what you and our lawmakers are doing to help DCWs!!! I found my old issues of The HUB and am bringing myself up to date on all the pertinent information. That has led to much discussion about how informative 1-26-09 was ...Thank you again, for your unending efforts. I have a whole new appreciation for everything you, and the staff at ICA does to help and encourage us.

Janda petersen, CnA

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iowa lawmaKerS told “You’re oN Your owN”ICA 2009 yo-yo day at the state Capitol

ICA Programs: 2009 ConferenceJoiN our QueSt For “cracKiNg the caregiver code” After surveying the landscape of the world today, we’re taking an adventure. Conference will be a one-day event (on October 9, 2009) with a reception on the evening before (October 8, 2009). Our quest will take us to a new location: Mercy Medical Center, east tower, Des Moines, IA. We’ve mapped the site and have found this the best location to begin “Cracking the CareGiver Code.”

We’re going to “dig” into a number of great topics and uncover the evidence that will help to “preserve” your love for the profession of direct care.

Look for more clues about conference early to mid summer!A conference designed

specifically for direct care workers:

Certified Nursing Assistants, Home Care Aides, patient Care techs, Medication Aides,

Rehabilitation Aides, Hospice Aides, Adult Day Care Workers, Resident Assistants, personal

Support Staff, Direct Care Worker Mentors, and Consumer Directed Attendant Care Workers.

If you would like to be a conference sponsor or exhibitor, please contact Pam Biklen at the Iowa CareGivers Association office:

515-225-2952 or [email protected]. Thanks.

The Iowa Chapter of the American Medical Directors Association (AMDA-IC), is Iowa’s professional association of medical directors, attending physicians, and others practicing in the long term care continuum. AMDA-IC is dedicated to excellence in patient care and provides education, advocacy, information, and professional development to promote the delivery of quality long term care medicine.

The members of AMDA-IC value direct care workers as essential members of the health and long term care team. To recognize their most valuable contribution to quality care, AMDA-IC has made a modest contribution to the Iowa CareGivers Association to honor one of Iowa’s finest direct caregivers for their outstanding service and commitment to compassionate and skilled care.

The recipient of the award is Linda Hackett, a Certified Nursing Assistant from Guttenberg Care Center. She is a member of the Iowa CareGivers Association

and a recent graduate from the Iowa CareGivers Association Leadership program. Congratulations to Linda!

“I am very grateful to the AMDA-IC for the scholarship to the ICA conference. I think it is wonderful what ICA does for us...it is nice to know that there is somebody that gives us a voice.”

To find out how you can contribute to the Iowa CareGivers Association scholarship fund, please call 515-223-2805 or email [email protected].

Paul Mulhausen, M.D., President, AMDA-IC

iowa chaPter oF the americaN medical directorS aSSociatioN coNtributeS a ScholarShiP award For ica coNFereNce

“Members of AMdA-IC value direct care workers as essential members of the health and long term care team.”

Linda Hackett, CNA

3rd Annual Nurse Aide Olympics in memory of Gladys PetersenJuly 8, 2009

Hawkeye Community College, Waterloo

For more information, call Victor Palmer, RN at 319-296-1481.

Other Programs

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ICA Programs: Leadership

106 direct care worKerS graduate From ica leaderShiP Program iN aPrilLeaders create a path where others want to follow.

In many ways leadership is a quiet journey. It evolves from knowledge, experience, and spirituality. It is a knowing that what you are doing in life has a purpose. Often when one is leading they are not even aware they are leading. Leaders create a path where others want to follow. Leadership does not just happen one day, but when it happens the results are amazing.

I have often said in the “A Call to Leadership” classes that a true leader wants to surround themselves with people who know more than they do. I had that experience this April. there were 106 leadership graduates in the state this spring. Every one of them was a joy to meet and learn from. It is obvious we are all in this field of caregiving together to make a difference. to lead others to greater heights and to grow both personally and professionally.

Iowa CareGivers Association has been on a journey to ensure that those who give care to others also receive the kindhearted care and respect they so deserve. I want to thank the Iowa Department of public Health, the leadership participants, administrators, and nurses who supported the Leadership program this year and for their words of encouragement.

the best to all of the 2009 Leadership graduates!

Sincerely, Heidee Barrett-McConnellICA education and Outreach Specialist

98% of attendees rated the ICA Leadership Program as excellent/very good.

91% of attendees said this program contributed to the likelihood they would continue to work in

the direct care field.

99% of attendees would recommend this program to a co-worker.

“Thanks so much for thinking of us and making us feel better about the importance of our roles

as caregivers.”

“I got a lot of information during the group activities from all the wonderful people participating

and Heidee was just excellent. Thank you so much for the scholarship, I am so impressed with ICA.”

Fairfield program, April 8

Cresco program, April 29

Leadership scholarships were made possible by Iowa Department of Public Health contract #5889SN02.

Kelli AndersonJoni AndersonMary ArkemeBrooke BatleyValerie BeckmanRoben BentsValerie BergmanMelinda BielefeldSaydi BorgesApril BrownSherry BuchananGerri CableRoger Carriertammy CeaserVicki CloverKimberly CoffeltRoberta ColsrudBrook CopleyReianna CrossLisa DavisAmber DeVries

Marieann DoegeKerri DunkelBonnie edwardsHelen emersonSara eppersonStaci friedleinCarla GarberKim GatesKeri GoerdtAngie Graff-ZavalaLinda Hacketttasha HammelMarsha HansenMichelle HartfieldJudy Helm-BurnsSharon Hendersontheresa HimesDotty HoppeDenise HuddlesonAnna HughesMichelle Iversen

Cleva JohannesBecky JohnsonJessie JungckMary KellyDeon Kensettpamela KirkemierKaren KlattKelly KnospeKris KrebsMary Ann LawrenceLaura Loehrtanya LongRaegan LongshoreConnie LunningCarrie McClurgConnie MeyerMeagan MillardSarah MillerCatherine MsuyaHolly MyersSusan Olsen

zachary OseLinda OwenMichael OwensSusan palmerHaylee palmerCarlyn pettedSarah phillipsDavid poggenklassJessica polandArliss RaheCindy RodgersBetty RothValerie RothMarta RouseDouglas RuseAnnette RussellBrenda SamsAmber SantamariaJeanette SchmitMartha SebetkaBethany Smith

Meggan StantonLaura SteinMary SteinmetzRhonda SultCarla SytsmaKim thompsonJulie thorntonVanessa timpLinnette tobiasSheila topLinda tullisnicole UdorvichJoey UnitsBrenda VremCassie WeaverLaurie WelschAmy WhitingJudy WidmayerCarol WilliamsSandy WilsonKimberly YoungRose ziegler

Congratulations to the 2009 ICA Leadership Program Graduates

Policy

the ica 2009 Public PolicY ageNda --how’d we do? what doeS it meaN to You? The Iowa CareGivers Association (ICA) truly cares about you and those you serve. We work to make direct care jobs GOOD jobs and to have those who do the work be fairly compensated, well educated and skilled, and insure that you get the respect and appreciation you deserve.

One of the ways we go about that is to have a yearly “public policy Agenda.” It is put together based on ideas from you and your supporters. the public policy agenda describes what we want to do and accomplish while the Iowa Legislature is in session. It is important because so many of the laws, rules, and regulations have a very direct affect on you and your ability to provide good care.

So…what did we work on… how did we do…and why is it important to you? A short version of the issues we addressed is highlighted.

Health care for Direct care Workers*Premium Assistance Project (House File 820): We were successful in obtaining $400,000 in funding to implement a premium Assistance project for direct care workers in Iowa. this project will help at least 250 direct care workers in Iowa pay for the insurance coverage that is currently offered by their employer.*Make health insurance coverage available to every Iowan (House File 389): Our goal is to help every direct care worker and every Iowan get access to adequate and affordable health insurance. We helped get legislation passed that will make new plans available to all Iowa adults by July 1, 2010.

direct Care worker education (House File 811): We succeeded in obtaining the funding needed to continue the work of this important advisory council that’s looking at ways to improve the education provided to direct care workers and to give you a “certified” or professional status within the Department of public Health. the new system will enable direct care workers to easily move between different care settings. Credit will be given for the important experience that existing direct care workers have and they can be grandfathered into the new system over time.

Direct care Worker Wages*Nursing Home Quality Assurance Fee (Senate File 476): We worked with the nursing home industry, AARp and others to help pass legislation that will raise additional funds for nursing facilities. It requires that at least 35% of that new money be used to increase the compensation and benefits of direct care workers.

other Quality care, Quality Life, Quality Job Legislative initiatives*Department of Inspections and Appeals Citations in Nursing Facilities (Senate File 433):We worked closely with advocates for consumers and direct care workers on the contents of a bill that would eliminate certain fines imposed by the Department of Inspections and Appeals against nursing facilities in Iowa. The ICA’s interest in the bill was to ensure that staffing levels, staff education and training and other issues that are important to your ability to provide good care were addressed.*Nursing Facilities Accountability Measures (House File 811):these measures, which provide additional funding to those nursing facilities performing at higher levels, were revised and improved. the legislation states that this additional funding should be used to support direct care staff through increased wages, enhanced benefits and expanded training opportunities. We, along with AARP, played an important role in obtaining these improvements.

the Job is never DoneAs you know the Iowa legislature meets from January through April and sometimes into May. However, the job is never done, and the time AfteR the legislative session is just as important as the time the legislature is In session.Here’s your JobGet tO KnOW YOUR LeGISLAtOR while he/she is back home between May and December! When you get a chance, say hello to them, get on their mailing list, attend a meeting that they hold, or invite them out for coffee. Give them the opportunity to get to know you and to learn more about the work you do. YOU are the key to our legislative success! this is the time to ready ourselves for next year’s Day at the State Capitol. Hope you will join us then.

thanks to all those who assisted us in our legislative efforts! We rely on so many people to achieve the results we highlight on this page! Key legislators like Senator Jack Hatch (Des Moines), Joe Bolkcom (Iowa City), Becky Schmitz (Fairfield), Amanda Ragan (Mason City) and Representative Lisa Heddens (Ames) and Mark Smith (Marshalltown), key staff people at the Capitol that assist legislators, other organizations like AARp and Department Directors of State Agencies that go to bat for direct care workers and those you serve, the Governor’s Office, and of course PEOPLE LIKE YOU who communicate with your elected representatives and encourage them to support the important work you do!

for those who want more detail or would like to discuss it further, feel free to contact me at: [email protected]

At left: John Hale, Governor Chet Culver, Cindy Ramer, CNA and ICA Member

At right: Senator Jack Hatch (Des Moines), Cindy Ramer, John Hale, Representative Lisa Heddens (Ames)

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iowa certiFied NurSiNg aSSiStaNt tellS her StorY to the aSSociated PreSS“I’m not AskIng for A HAndout.”

“I don’t think it’s fair that I’m caring for people and helping them with their health care, and I don’t have adequate, affordable health care of my own,” said Ramer. “I’m not asking for a handout. I’m just asking for something I can afford, and won’t have all these restrictions that they’ll cover this and won’t cover that.” Ramer says she can afford to pay about $100 to $150 a month.

Recently, Cindy Ramer, CnA, and member of the Iowa CareGivers Association, was interviewed by the Associated press for an article on the lack of adequate health care coverage.

the article ran in newsweek.

liNda licht iS iN our heartS

Linda Licht, who passed away in April, loved flowers. Her fellow ICA Leadership Council member, Vicki Erickson, remembers Linda loved flowers so much that whenever she saw a flower arrangement that didn’t look good to her, she would rearrange it. Vicki also remembers Linda as a dear friend and good leader who helped her through both the good and bad times.

Laura Schroeder also served on the ICA Leadership Council with Linda. Laura said, “Linda was a caring, wonderful person who took time with her patients. She always gave hugs and had a smile on her face.”

Cheryl Kastantin, R.N., wrote this: “A good friend and dedicated caregiver passed away on April 28, 2009 from battling cancer, Linda Licht from Lowden, IA. I know she was dedicated to the Iowa CareGivers Association 100%. I worked with Linda for four years. She gave so much to her residents and job. She will be greatly missed.”

Linda had served on the ICA Leadership Council since 2004 and had worked as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) for a number of years. We will miss her dearly. She will always be with us in our hearts.

a PoSitive recogNitioN“These people do the work that many of us could not tolerate, and yet seem to receive minimal recognition for their efforts.”

I was reading an article about Alex Rodriguez in the sport pages the other day and it stated that he was to make 27 and a half million dollars. Why does he make that kind of money and other people with more important jobs earn far less? Doctors, nurses, policemen, put themselves at a greater risk more so than an athlete. take the Iowa Veterans Home (IVH) for instance. The highest paid people here are the doctors, pharmacists, etc. All of these occupations are honorable, necessary positions that we need to ensure that our work gets done day in day out, but they are not the most important people we have working here.

My vote goes to the nurse’s aides or the Resident Treatment Workers (RTW’s) as we know it here at IVH. These people do the work that many of us could not tolerate, and yet seem to receive minimal recognition for their efforts. they typically work closest to residents, know the most about them, and likely receive more mistreatment from them than anyone else. Oh, by the way my personal top 5 most important positions here at IVH are: the RtW, Cook/food Service Worker, Housekeeper, Laundry Worker, and Maintenance Worker. So, try getting something done around here without any of these people and see how far you get.

By Mark Freeland/Dietary Supervisor, Iowa Veterans HomeReprinted with permission from author


iowa direct care worKer leaderS aPPlY For iNteNSive leaderShiP aNd advocacY traiNiNg

The first Voices Institute (a national program of the Direct Care Alliance) was held in May 2008. Ray and Vicki Erickson, direct care workers and Iowa CareGivers Association members, attended this training and are among the graduates that are already changing the world by:

testifying before Legislative committees; Building relationships with lawmakers to raise their awareness of direct care worker issues; putting on conferences for their worker associations; Writing letters to government officials to request better wages and working conditions; Raising funds and building membership for their worker associations; and Speaking at conferences and other public events.

this year, the Iowa CareGivers Association is proud that three members of the ICA Direct Care Worker Leadership Council have applied to attend the 2009 Voices Institute. they are Anthony Wells, Cindy Ramer, and Laura Schroeder. We anxiously await the selections.

The 2009 national training will be held from September 27 through October 3, 2009. All expenses plus a daily stipend are paid for qualified applicants.Read more about the Voices Institute at www.directcarealliance.org/VI

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member SPotlight: laura Schroeder

Laura Schroeder has been on the Iowa CareGivers Association Direct Care Worker Leadership Council since its beginning in 2004. Here’s some information to help you get to know Laura.

title: CnA

Where I work: I’ve worked at Mercy Medical Center for almost 20 years now.

Recent accomplishments: My work in promoting the Iowa CareGivers Association has been very rewarding. I’ve also recently given a couple of presentations to CnA classes at nICC to promote the profession and the ICA.

My favorite part of caregiving: I really enjoy meeting and working with people.

Something I’d like to change about the caregiving profession: I wish there was more respect shown toward caregivers and that they received the acknowledgement that they deserve.

How will caregiving change in the next ten years? there will be a need for more caregivers and better educated caregivers.

My advice to employers about what they need to do to recruit and retain direct care workers: try to work with the caregivers and help them out along the way and they would probably stay longer.

Something I’d like to accomplish: More education.

Someone I admire: ICA and everything you’ve done to work with and educate direct care workers.

Outside interests: Camping, walking, and traveling.

About my family: My husband, Jerry, and I have three sons; Jakob, who is a teacher; nathan, who will be attending Drake Law School; and Austin, who will be attending the University of Iowa in the fall. One of my biggest goals has been to make sure that our kids get a good education.

My favorite vacation spot: Going to the Black Hills. It is a very nice area for camping.

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106 direct care worKerS graduate From ica leaderShiP Program iN aPrilLeaders create a path where others want to follow.

In many ways leadership is a quiet journey. It evolves from knowledge, experience, and spirituality. It is a knowing that what you are doing in life has a purpose. Often when one is leading they are not even aware they are leading. Leaders create a path where others want to follow. Leadership does not just happen one day, but when it happens the results are amazing.

I have often said in the “A Call to Leadership” classes that a true leader wants to surround themselves with people who know more than they do. I had that experience this April. there were 106 leadership graduates in the state this spring. Every one of them was a joy to meet and learn from. It is obvious we are all in this field of caregiving together to make a difference. to lead others to greater heights and to grow both personally and professionally.

Iowa CareGivers Association has been on a journey to ensure that those who give care to others also receive the kindhearted care and respect they so deserve. I want to thank the Iowa Department of public Health, the leadership participants, administrators, and nurses who supported the Leadership program this year and for their words of encouragement.

the best to all of the 2009 Leadership graduates!

Sincerely, Heidee Barrett-McConnellICA education and Outreach Specialist

98% of attendees rated the ICA Leadership Program as excellent/very good.

91% of attendees said this program contributed to the likelihood they would continue to work in

the direct care field.

99% of attendees would recommend this program to a co-worker.

“Thanks so much for thinking of us and making us feel better about the importance of our roles

as caregivers.”

“I got a lot of information during the group activities from all the wonderful people participating

and Heidee was just excellent. Thank you so much for the scholarship, I am so impressed with ICA.”

Fairfield program, April 8

Cresco program, April 29

Leadership scholarships were made possible by Iowa Department of Public Health contract #5889SN02.

Kelli AndersonJoni AndersonMary ArkemeBrooke BatleyValerie BeckmanRoben BentsValerie BergmanMelinda BielefeldSaydi BorgesApril BrownSherry BuchananGerri CableRoger Carriertammy CeaserVicki CloverKimberly CoffeltRoberta ColsrudBrook CopleyReianna CrossLisa DavisAmber DeVries

Marieann DoegeKerri DunkelBonnie edwardsHelen emersonSara eppersonStaci friedleinCarla GarberKim GatesKeri GoerdtAngie Graff-ZavalaLinda Hacketttasha HammelMarsha HansenMichelle HartfieldJudy Helm-BurnsSharon Hendersontheresa HimesDotty HoppeDenise HuddlesonAnna HughesMichelle Iversen

Cleva JohannesBecky JohnsonJessie JungckMary KellyDeon Kensettpamela KirkemierKaren KlattKelly KnospeKris KrebsMary Ann LawrenceLaura Loehrtanya LongRaegan LongshoreConnie LunningCarrie McClurgConnie MeyerMeagan MillardSarah MillerCatherine MsuyaHolly MyersSusan Olsen

zachary OseLinda OwenMichael OwensSusan palmerHaylee palmerCarlyn pettedSarah phillipsDavid poggenklassJessica polandArliss RaheCindy RodgersBetty RothValerie RothMarta RouseDouglas RuseAnnette RussellBrenda SamsAmber SantamariaJeanette SchmitMartha SebetkaBethany Smith

Meggan StantonLaura SteinMary SteinmetzRhonda SultCarla SytsmaKim thompsonJulie thorntonVanessa timpLinnette tobiasSheila topLinda tullisnicole UdorvichJoey UnitsBrenda VremCassie WeaverLaurie WelschAmy WhitingJudy WidmayerCarol WilliamsSandy WilsonKimberly YoungRose ziegler

Congratulations to the 2009 ICA Leadership Program Graduates

Policy

the ica 2009 Public PolicY ageNda --how’d we do? what doeS it meaN to You? The Iowa CareGivers Association (ICA) truly cares about you and those you serve. We work to make direct care jobs GOOD jobs and to have those who do the work be fairly compensated, well educated and skilled, and insure that you get the respect and appreciation you deserve.

One of the ways we go about that is to have a yearly “public policy Agenda.” It is put together based on ideas from you and your supporters. the public policy agenda describes what we want to do and accomplish while the Iowa Legislature is in session. It is important because so many of the laws, rules, and regulations have a very direct affect on you and your ability to provide good care.

So…what did we work on… how did we do…and why is it important to you? A short version of the issues we addressed is highlighted.

Health care for Direct care Workers*Premium Assistance Project (House File 820): We were successful in obtaining $400,000 in funding to implement a premium Assistance project for direct care workers in Iowa. this project will help at least 250 direct care workers in Iowa pay for the insurance coverage that is currently offered by their employer.*Make health insurance coverage available to every Iowan (House File 389): Our goal is to help every direct care worker and every Iowan get access to adequate and affordable health insurance. We helped get legislation passed that will make new plans available to all Iowa adults by July 1, 2010.

direct Care worker education (House File 811): We succeeded in obtaining the funding needed to continue the work of this important advisory council that’s looking at ways to improve the education provided to direct care workers and to give you a “certified” or professional status within the Department of public Health. the new system will enable direct care workers to easily move between different care settings. Credit will be given for the important experience that existing direct care workers have and they can be grandfathered into the new system over time.

Direct care Worker Wages*Nursing Home Quality Assurance Fee (Senate File 476): We worked with the nursing home industry, AARp and others to help pass legislation that will raise additional funds for nursing facilities. It requires that at least 35% of that new money be used to increase the compensation and benefits of direct care workers.

other Quality care, Quality Life, Quality Job Legislative initiatives*Department of Inspections and Appeals Citations in Nursing Facilities (Senate File 433):We worked closely with advocates for consumers and direct care workers on the contents of a bill that would eliminate certain fines imposed by the Department of Inspections and Appeals against nursing facilities in Iowa. The ICA’s interest in the bill was to ensure that staffing levels, staff education and training and other issues that are important to your ability to provide good care were addressed.*Nursing Facilities Accountability Measures (House File 811):these measures, which provide additional funding to those nursing facilities performing at higher levels, were revised and improved. the legislation states that this additional funding should be used to support direct care staff through increased wages, enhanced benefits and expanded training opportunities. We, along with AARP, played an important role in obtaining these improvements.

the Job is never DoneAs you know the Iowa legislature meets from January through April and sometimes into May. However, the job is never done, and the time AfteR the legislative session is just as important as the time the legislature is In session.Here’s your JobGet tO KnOW YOUR LeGISLAtOR while he/she is back home between May and December! When you get a chance, say hello to them, get on their mailing list, attend a meeting that they hold, or invite them out for coffee. Give them the opportunity to get to know you and to learn more about the work you do. YOU are the key to our legislative success! this is the time to ready ourselves for next year’s Day at the State Capitol. Hope you will join us then.

thanks to all those who assisted us in our legislative efforts! We rely on so many people to achieve the results we highlight on this page! Key legislators like Senator Jack Hatch (Des Moines), Joe Bolkcom (Iowa City), Becky Schmitz (Fairfield), Amanda Ragan (Mason City) and Representative Lisa Heddens (Ames) and Mark Smith (Marshalltown), key staff people at the Capitol that assist legislators, other organizations like AARp and Department Directors of State Agencies that go to bat for direct care workers and those you serve, the Governor’s Office, and of course PEOPLE LIKE YOU who communicate with your elected representatives and encourage them to support the important work you do!

for those who want more detail or would like to discuss it further, feel free to contact me at: [email protected]

At left: John Hale, Governor Chet Culver, Cindy Ramer, CNA and ICA Member

At right: Senator Jack Hatch (Des Moines), Cindy Ramer, John Hale, Representative Lisa Heddens (Ames)

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Policy

the Iowa CareGivers Association “2009 Day at the Capitol” held on January 26, 2009, was a success.

You’re On Your Own the message to legislators this year was “You’re On Your Own”...unless you continue to take the next steps to ensure that there are enough qualified direct care workers to meet the needs of you, your loved ones, and all Iowans requiring care and supportive services.

Let’s take the next steps together to make a difference indirect care worker wages access to adequate health care benefits for direct care workerseducational standards for direct care workers

the “YoYo” theme was a fun way to get a very serious message out to those who are making decisions that affect you, me, and all of our loved ones.

Here’s what some of you had to say about your experience:

Just wanted to tell you what a wonderful experience yesterday was. Janda and I got to talk with our legislators and relayed how important 2539 [legislation] is to direct care workers. They were very receptive and wanted us to know that they would work on getting that bill through.

Sandy Ricklefs, HCA

Thank you for encouraging us to attend this informative session!!! I’m so much more interested in, and motiviated about what you and our lawmakers are doing to help DCWs!!! I found my old issues of The HUB and am bringing myself up to date on all the pertinent information. That has led to much discussion about how informative 1-26-09 was ...Thank you again, for your unending efforts. I have a whole new appreciation for everything you, and the staff at ICA does to help and encourage us.

Janda petersen, CnA

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iowa lawmaKerS told “You’re oN Your owN”ICA 2009 yo-yo day at the state Capitol

ICA Programs: 2009 ConferenceJoiN our QueSt For “cracKiNg the caregiver code” After surveying the landscape of the world today, we’re taking an adventure. Conference will be a one-day event (on October 9, 2009) with a reception on the evening before (October 8, 2009). Our quest will take us to a new location: Mercy Medical Center, east tower, Des Moines, IA. We’ve mapped the site and have found this the best location to begin “Cracking the CareGiver Code.”

We’re going to “dig” into a number of great topics and uncover the evidence that will help to “preserve” your love for the profession of direct care.

Look for more clues about conference early to mid summer!A conference designed

specifically for direct care workers:

Certified Nursing Assistants, Home Care Aides, patient Care techs, Medication Aides,

Rehabilitation Aides, Hospice Aides, Adult Day Care Workers, Resident Assistants, personal

Support Staff, Direct Care Worker Mentors, and Consumer Directed Attendant Care Workers.

If you would like to be a conference sponsor or exhibitor, please contact Pam Biklen at the Iowa CareGivers Association office:

515-225-2952 or [email protected]. Thanks.

The Iowa Chapter of the American Medical Directors Association (AMDA-IC), is Iowa’s professional association of medical directors, attending physicians, and others practicing in the long term care continuum. AMDA-IC is dedicated to excellence in patient care and provides education, advocacy, information, and professional development to promote the delivery of quality long term care medicine.

The members of AMDA-IC value direct care workers as essential members of the health and long term care team. To recognize their most valuable contribution to quality care, AMDA-IC has made a modest contribution to the Iowa CareGivers Association to honor one of Iowa’s finest direct caregivers for their outstanding service and commitment to compassionate and skilled care.

The recipient of the award is Linda Hackett, a Certified Nursing Assistant from Guttenberg Care Center. She is a member of the Iowa CareGivers Association

and a recent graduate from the Iowa CareGivers Association Leadership program. Congratulations to Linda!

“I am very grateful to the AMDA-IC for the scholarship to the ICA conference. I think it is wonderful what ICA does for us...it is nice to know that there is somebody that gives us a voice.”

To find out how you can contribute to the Iowa CareGivers Association scholarship fund, please call 515-223-2805 or email [email protected].

Paul Mulhausen, M.D., President, AMDA-IC

iowa chaPter oF the americaN medical directorS aSSociatioN coNtributeS a ScholarShiP award For ica coNFereNce

“Members of AMdA-IC value direct care workers as essential members of the health and long term care team.”

Linda Hackett, CNA

3rd Annual Nurse Aide Olympics in memory of Gladys PetersenJuly 8, 2009

Hawkeye Community College, Waterloo

For more information, call Victor Palmer, RN at 319-296-1481.

Other Programs

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ICA Programs: Mentor Program

ICA Programs: End of Life Program

thoughtS oN SPiritual care at eNd-oF-liFe by Linda SimontonDo Direct Care Workers provide spiritual care for their residents/patients at the end of their lives? “Yes” said Direct Care Workers in home care, nursing homes, and hospice. These Direct Care Workers participated in a focus group on end-of-life care sponsored by Des Moines University, Hospice of Central Iowa, and the Iowa CareGivers Association through a grant from the Mid-Iowa Health Foundation.

Here’s what else Direct Care Workers had to say about spiritual care for their residents/patients at the end of their lives:It’s important to do more listening than talking – to be a confidential “sounding board.” Let the resident/patient lead the conversation about their spiritual beliefs. the beliefs may be different from yours, so it’s important to accept that everyone has a right to their own beliefs. When the resident/patient has a different faith tradition or culture from yours, it can be an opportunity to learn about it.

Several Direct Care Workers said it’s hard for them to know what to say when the person they are caring for says, “I just want to die.” It can be difficult to know if the person really wants to die or if they are lonely and need attention. ICA is suggesting this as a topic for a Direct Care Worker educational program.

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June2: Conference Planning Committee10: ICA Staff Retreat9: DCW Leadership Council Meeting17, 18: Regional Mentor Program (Creston, SWCC)24: Executive Committee Meeting24, 25: Regional Mentor Program (Waterloo, Hawkeye)30: Mentor Program Instructor Regroup

July3-10: ICA Offices Closed15: ICA Board Meeting29: 2010 Program Planning Meeting

August4: Conference Planning Committee

September1: Conference Planning Committee10: DCW Leadership Council Meeting11: ICA Strategic Planning (Board, Council, Staff)30: Executive Committee Meeting

october8: DCW Leadership Council Workshop8: Reception/Annual Meeting9: ICA Annual Conference (Des Moines)22: ICA Staff Retreat

november3: Conference Committee Follow-up5: DCW Leadership Council Meeting

December16: Executive Committee Meeting

ICA Programs: Calendar for Remainder of 2009

“A Call to Mentoring” is a two-day workshop for direct care workers. the program addresses two needs of direct care workers:

the need for better and more meaningful orientations, and;the need for direct care workers who have been in the field for awhile to have an opportunity to advance within their field.

1.2.

Congratulations to these certified ICA Mentor Program

Instructors:Victor Palmer, Hawkeye Community College

Linda Simonton, ICA ConsultantMarilyn Stille, Northwest Iowa Community

College

One of the first steps in beginning an ICA mentor program in your organization is to have supervisory staff and administration attend the ICA Mentor Managment Class. The photo at left is the Mentor Management group from February 5 in Des Moines.

Future of the Mentor Program: It is the goal of the ICA to work with a few additional community colleges over the next couple of years to eventually include the Mentor program into their regular class schedules.

The ICA Mentor Program has proven to help

reduce staff turnover.

Watch future newsletters for a schedule of regional meetings.

Open House

iowa caregiverS aSSociatioN direct care worKer reSource aNd outreach ceNter (roc)

oPeN houSe Photo tour

thaNKS to lou cathcart, iNterior deSigNer, for assisting the Iowa CareGivers Association to transform our new

location to reflect our mission, increase our efficiency, and to

welcome and inspire those we serve.

You, too, can change your workspace affordably.

Contact Lou atpostsprawl Design

[email protected]

the addition of warm wall colors from paint purchased by ICA Board Members and Staff, donated furniture from the principal financial Group, and a few personal affects transformed the DCW ROC into a location more accessible to you. the new location at 1211 Vine Street #1000 will enable the ICA to expand our ability to provide you with the information and support you need to flourish in your chosen career of direct care. The photo tour below takes you through our new office space. The design of our hallways incorporates our mission and highlights photos of direct care workers, the heart of our association. Another feature is more meeting space for our educational programs, forums, and meetings. If you didn’t make the open house, drop by to see us.

Pam Biklen, Program Director

Di Findley, Executive Director

Di shows off the new resource area to Terry Fankhauser, Finance Director.

Georgeanna Spagnola, Data Management Asst.

At right: Connie Stevens, volunteer and Di make work of cutting postcards.

Heidee Barrett-McConnell, Education and Outreach Specialist, teaching a workshop.

At left: John Hale, Policy Director, conducts a training on advocacy.

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Public Forum

Rachel Pender’s caregiver, Jolene Hunt, Rachel, and Jim Pender.

John Hale, ICA Policy Director; Michelle Holst, IDPH; Jennifer Furler, SPPG; Julie McMahon, IDPH

ICA Board Members,Tom Carpenter and Ivan Lyddon

Pictured below: (L to R) Front Row: Julianne Carson, Warren County Health Services; Mollie Cooney, KCCI-TV8; Bruce Koeppl, AARP Back Row: Anthony Wells, Direct Care Worker; Dean Lerner, Director, Iowa Department of Inspections and Appeals; Gene Gessow, Former Director, Iowa Department of Human Services; Senator Jack Hatch, Des Moines; Tom Newton, Director, Iowa Department of Public Health; John McCalley, Director, Iowa Department of Elder Affairs; Jim Pender, Family Advocate. Not pictured: Paul Turner, AMOS and Dr. Robert Denson, DMACC.

Public Forum SPotlightS iowa’S Need to brace For the care gaP

“Mid Iowa Health foundation is interested in identifying unmet health care needs in our community. We support finding solutions to gaps, particularly in the area of access to care.”

Kathy Bradley, President, Mid-Iowa Health Foundation

I’m one of 60,000 to 100,000 direct care workers (DCWs) in Iowa, but most don’t know who we are or what we do until they need one of us. We are faced with what some refer to as a “care gap” which simply means that the number of people needing care is growing at a time when those available to provide the care is dwindling.

Just because one has access to health care coverage doesn’t mean one has access to care. That’s not possible without a stable health and long term care workforce. This forum is meant to spotlight how complex direct care workforce issues are:

access to care issuespublic safety issuesworkforce and economic development issuessocial justice issuesquality life and quality care issues...for those receiving and giving care

Excerpt from opening comments by Anthony C. Wells, CNA, CHPNA

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couldn’t Attend the Forum, But interested?

A video featuring each of the panelists’ comments will be posted on the ICA’s new website in July. In addition, a video entitled “ Iowa Braces for the Care Gap: Building a Stable Direct Care Workforce” will also be posted on our website soon. If you have any questions, please call the ICA office at 515-223-2805.

ICA Board of Directors2009

Marshall porter, ChairAnne Kinzel, Vice Chair

Maribel Slinde, treasurerMary Ann Young, Secretary

nancy Andersontom Carpenter

Kim DownsBetty Grandquist

Colleen JollyIvan Lyddon

Maribel Slinde

AdvisorsShirley Sorenson

Margaret Swanson

ICA Direct Care WorkerLeadership Council

MembersRenee BernierVicki ericksonDiane frerichsVicky Garske

tracy HovelandCindy Ramer

Laura Schroederpatty SweseyAnthony Wells

ICA Staff:Heidee Barrett McConnell

Education and Outreach Specialist

pam BiklenProgram Director, Contributing Editor

terry fankhauserFinance Director

Di findleyExecutive Director

John Hale Policy Director

Lin Salasberry Direct Care Worker Outreach Coordinator

Georgeanna SpagnolaData Management Assistant


Ph: 515-223-2805Toll Free: 888-710-2762

Fax: 515-226-3214email: [email protected]

Website: www.iowacaregivers.org

National/Community Resources

oral caNcer aNd what You Need to KNow

What are the risk factors? the two main risk factors are tobacco use and alcohol consumption. Other risks include prolonged sun exposure, human papillomavirus infection, poor diet/hygiene, and a weakened immune system.

What to look for?The most common sites for oral cancer are the tongue, the floor of the mouth, lips, and salivary glands. Look for changes in these areas:

Sores that bleed easily or don’t heal in two weeksSwelling, lumps, or crusty area in the mouth areaWhite or red spot lesions that do not go away in a couple of weeksProlonged pain or tenderness of the jaw/tongue or difficulty with normal oral functions

What you can do? the nature of oral cancer underscores the need for dental checkups. If you have clients/patients with risk factors or the symptoms listed above, refer them to a dentist. there are new, painless, and relatively inexpensive technologies that can further evaluate and make a definitive diagnosis before it is too late.

Delta Dental of Iowa offers an individual dental insurance for individuals and families that do not have access to group dental benefits. Plans start at $17 per month. For more information go to www.deltadentalia.com or call 1-877-423-3582 ext. 3.

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MeDicAL FoSteR HoMe PRoGRAMUS DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS

VA CENTRAL IOWA HEALTH CARE

An affordable option for Veterans who cannot live independently, but would like to remain in a homelike setting.

to learn more about this program and the requirements, please contact

the Medical Foster Home Program coordinator at 515-699-5715 or email: janice.o’[email protected]

CENTRAL IOWA SAVES A free program to help Iowans in

Central Iowa achieve their financial goals (such as home ownership, school tuition, retirement, or debt

repayment).

To learn more about this program:

http://www.centraliowasaves.orgor


Call: 515-283-0940

Jill Hamilton, Corporate Communications, Delta Dental of Iowa

Thank you to the Delta Dental of Iowa Foundation for awarding the ICA an $8,000 grant to help sponsor our conference in the fall.

ICA ‘s ROC WebsiteComing Soon

Redesigned ICA Website with:A new looknew navigation categoriesnew information and resourcesVideo clipsAnd more

Look for it to go live sometime in July.

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Iowa CareGivers Association1211 Vine Street, Suite 1120

West Des Moines, IA 50265

Phone: (515) 223-2805

Fax: (515) 226-3214


Website: www.iowacaregivers.com

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Iowa CareGivers Association does not discriminate in its educational programs and activities on the basis of race, creed, national origin, ancestry, color, religion, sex, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation or any other protected class under relevant state and federal laws.

Advertising Policy

Not all information sent to us for publication will be used. Materials or advertising printed in this publication does not mean an endorsement by the Iowa CareGivers Association (ICA). All advertising is subject to ICA approval. We do not run job listings. We do run ads promoting facilities or agencies and any special programs for CNAs or other direct care workers which would be of special interest to our members and other readers. If you would like to submit materials or ads for publication, please contact us at 515-223-2805 or by email at [email protected].

Iowa CareGIvers assoCIatIon

HUB newsletter

Look inside for articles, information, and much more...

Please remember to update us if you have any name or contact information changes, so that you can continue to receive the ICA HUB and other program announcements. Thank you.

Iowa CareGivers AssociationDirect Care Worker Resource and Outreach Center1211 Vine Street, Suite 1000West Des Moines, Iowa 50265

nOnpROfIt ORGAnIzAtIOnU.S. pOStAGe pAID

DeS MOIneS, IApeRMIt nO. 5294 return service

requested

notice:the icA Hub will no longer be mailed to health and long term care providers in order to reduce costs. the only providers to receive the newsletter will be those who express their support of direct care workers by becoming a Keystone contributor. For more information about how to become a Keystone contributor, please call the ICA office at 515-223-2805 or email [email protected].

THE HUBJune 2009

Iowa CareGivers Association Newsletter: Delivering information to those who are at the center of quality care

Enhancing the quality of care by providing education, recognition, advocacy and

research in support of direct care workers.

This newsletter is made possible by the Iowa Department of Public Health and United States Department of Human Services (USDHS) Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) Grant #1D1DHP10751-01-00

Public Forum Spotlights Iowa’s Need to Brace for a Care Gap

See page 2.

Annual Conference for Direct Care Workers to be heldFrIdAy, OCtOber 9, 2009

Location: Mercy Medical Center, east

tower, Des Moines, IA

See page 9 for more clues about this event.

IOwA CAregIvers AssOCIAtIOn seCures $329,670 In FundIng

Di Findley, executive Director of the iowa careGivers Association, recently announced that the association has secured $329,670 in federal funding. this funding is to advance icA’s mission of enhancing the quality of care throughout the state by providing policy and practice initiatives designed for a sector of the health and long term care workforce that inevitably nearly all Iowa families will rely upon --the direct care worker. Funding was made possible through the efforts of senator tom Harkin (d-IA), and was included in the Omnibus Appropriations Act of 2009.

“the icA mission and vision are built upon the premise that the maintenance of a stable, well educated, trained, respected and compensated direct care workforce is vital to the safety and well-being of older iowans, persons with disabilities, and all iowans,” said Findley. “this

investment in icA will help us continue the work previously supported by Senator Harkin to expand the Direct care Worker Resource and outreach center, the Direct care

Worker Mentor Program, and other initiatives. if we can address the needs of direct care workers, they can address the needs of the iowans who rely upon them for care and support.”

Harkin, a senior member of the Senate Appropriations committee and chairman of the Labor, Health and Human Services, and education Appropriations sub-committee commented, “Caregivers tend to our loved ones on a daily basis. these are the people we trust to provide simple remedies for daily ailments, to provide care in the midst of uncertainty and dignity in the midst of decline. i can think of no profession more deserving of our support. that’s why i’m proud to secure vital funding that gives those direct care workers the help they need to support iowa families.”

“These are the people we trust to provide simple remedies for daily ailments, to provide care in the midst of uncertainty and dignity in the midst of decline.” --Senator Tom Harkin (D-IA)

DAy At tHe StAte cAPitoL2009

See page 4 for more on this event.

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hub newsletter june 2009 - iowa caregivers kinzel, vice chair maribel slinde, treasurer mary ann...

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