Care providers in Oregon are sounding the alarm over critical workforce challenges, urging lawmakers to support House Bill 3838, which aims to establish essential standards for pay, benefits, training, and staffing in the caregiving sector. During a recent meeting of the House Committee on Rules, caregivers shared their struggles, emphasizing the urgent need for better support and resources to sustain their vital work.

One caregiver, who has dedicated over 13 years to supporting her autistic daughter, highlighted the overwhelming challenges faced by care providers. She described a lack of access to respite care, inadequate wages, and the absence of a supportive community, stating, "We are on the verge of burning out." She called for policies that would protect caregivers and ensure they can continue to serve Oregon's most vulnerable populations.

Jewel Nelson, a cofounder of the Independent Family Council, shared her personal experience navigating the complexities of long-term care for her mother with dementia. She stressed the importance of well-trained and adequately compensated caregivers, noting that families need to trust that their loved ones are receiving proper care. "Caregivers are the heart of the care," she asserted, urging the committee to pass HB 3838 to improve training and staffing standards.

Anne Kirby, a caregiver with over 20 years of experience, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the need for quality training to ensure the safety and dignity of residents. She pointed out that while she loves her work, the physical and emotional toll is significant, making access to healthcare and improved wages essential for retention in the field.

The discussions at the meeting underscored a growing consensus among caregivers that without immediate action to address these workforce issues, the quality of care for Oregon's most at-risk populations could be severely compromised. As the committee considers HB 3838, the voices of caregivers are clear: they need support to continue their critical work.