US Department of Labor announces release of Long-Term Care, Supports and Services Competency Model

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Labor today announced the release of the Long-Term Care, Supports and Services Competency Model. Over the past several months, the department's Employment and Training Administration has worked with federal and industry partners to identify the core competencies required of workers who provide long-term care, support and services for individuals with disabilities and older adults in need of assistance.

"Competency models outline the knowledge and skills needed by workers in specific industries, and are helpful tools to ensure that our workforce is prepared to fill important occupations," said Jane Oates, assistant secretary for the Employment and Training Administration. "There is a growing need for professionals who enhance the health and well-being of people with disabilities, and care providers who work with aging adults, enabling them to live self-determined lives."

The LTCSS model describes the academic, workplace and technical competencies required for workers who provide social services, community supports and health care services for those in need. By focusing on the skills requirements of workers in occupations serving nursing, assisted living, congregate care and independent assisted living facilities, the model helps to highlight transferable skills that can be applied across these related fields.

The model reflects the recommendations of subject matter expert organizations including the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the American Health Care Association, the Paraprofessional Healthcare Institute, the American Network of Community Options and Resources, the College of Direct Support, the National Center for Assisted Living, the University of Minnesota Institute on Community Integration, the University of Alaska-Anchorage Center for Human Development and the National Alliance for Direct Support Professionals.

To access the LTCSS model, visit the department's Competency Model Clearinghouse at http://www.careeronestop.org/competencymodel. A podcast that attests to the model's value, how it was developed and its possible uses is available at http://www.careeronestop.org/CompetencyModel/Podcasts/Podcast-LTC.aspx.