Let’s Talk: Workforce Transformation – Changing Agency Culture and Retaining Good Staff

Like many providers, Core Services of Northeast Tennessee reached a turning point more than a decade ago. The Home and Community Based Settings Rule (a federal mandate in the US requiring Medicaid services to be delivered in integrated rather than segregated settings) was causing upheaval for provider agencies nationwide.

Core began focusing on lives rather than services, listening to people and acting accordingly. Within two years, all agency supports were 100% community based. 41% of people supported were employed. The Direct support professional turnover rate had been reduced by over 50%. Rights restrictions became non-existent. They began to wonder what could be accomplished if the same concepts were applied to our workforce? The answer: reduced vacancies, reduced turnover, and lower overtime costs.

This month’s Let’s Talk webinar explores Core Services’ person centered journey and how it reshaped the organization’s workforce. John Raffaele, NADSP Director of Educational Services, will join Nick Filarelli, Executive Director of Core Services of Northeast Tennessee next week. Nick will discuss his article, “Workforce Transformation – Changing Agency Culture and Retaining Good Staff.”

This live webinar is a companion to the most recent International Journal for Direct Support Professionals issue. ASL interpretation and closed captions will be available during the webinar. To review previous issues of The International Journal for Direct Support Professionals, click here.