University of Buffalo Community Justice Clinic Releases New Report on Homecare Industry in Buffalo and Erie County

Report Reveals Widespread Problems with Working Conditions and Patient Care

The University of Buffalo Community Justice Clinic released a new report today that describes the challenges faced by homecare workers employed in Buffalo and Erie County (download the report here). The report, entitled “Homecare Industry in Crisis,” is the result of in-depth interviews with homecare workers conducted over the last year. The report details widespread problems with patient care, including understaffing, lack of medical supplies, inadequate care, and communication issues that lead to poorer health outcomes. It also explores challenges faced by homecare workers in their jobs, including wage theft, lack of transportation, health and safety issues, sexual harassment, and mistreatment by their employers.

One of the foremost issues our country faces today is the growing number of individuals, including the elderly and people with disabilities, who require in-home care. While some family members take on the care of relatives themselves, many are unable to do so and must depend on homecare workers to provide necessary care. Homecare constitutes one of the most critical parts of the U.S. healthcare system and is only going to grow in importance as the population ages. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are currently more than two million homecare workers providing non-medical services, including companionship, cleaning, cooking, and driving, to people in their homes. Homecare ranks among the top 10 fastest-growing occupations in the U.S. From 2016 to 2026, homecare is projected to add more jobs than any other single occupation, with over 1 million new jobs anticipated.

The report found, however, that this growing industry has a long way to go in providing both excellent patient care and good jobs for its workers. “This report should be a wakeup call for everyone who has a relative that needs homecare services. Without reforms, the industry is doing a disservice to the many people in its care,” said Andrew Kij, a law student at the University at Buffalo School of Law who worked on the report.

“Homecare workers fulfill a critical role in our society, yet they suffer from low pay and poor working conditions,” said Gabrielle Gannon, another law student, “We need to make sure that the quality of homecare jobs reflects the importance of the work they do.”

The report concludes with a series of policy recommendations for improving working conditions of homecare workers and patient care in the industry. The Community Justice Clinic is directed by Nicole Hallett, Associate Professor of Law
at the University at Buffalo School of Law.