President and CEO John Dahm Testifies in Support of Fair PCA Wages
John Dahm Testified before the Committee of Human Services Finance and Policy Committee in support of HF 663
“PCAs are critical to supporting the elderly and Minnesotans with disabilities, and they do this work while receiving a wage that is less than you can earn per hour at a local retailer or fast food restaurant."
John Dahm
Recently, Accra President and CEO testified before the House Committee of Human Services Finance and Policy Committee in support of HF 663 and providing livable wages for PCAs. To watch his testimony, check out the video below.
Read John's testimony here:
Good morning Chair Schultz and committee members. Thank you for the opportunity to testify this morning. My name is John Dahm and I’m the CEO of Accra Homecare. As the largest provider of homecare services in Minnesota, we are here today to testify in support of HF 663 and for providing a living wage for PCAs.
Personal Care Assistants, or PCAs, are essential not only to Minnesotans with disabilities and older adults -- but also to Minnesota's health care system
As you know, the homecare industry helps children and adults with disabilities live in their own homes, while reducing overall health care costs by preventing costlier out of home placements in congregate care settings. Without a strong workforce, we could lose these benefits for both the people we serve and the state's health care system.
PCAs are critical to supporting the elderly and Minnesotans with disabilities, and they do this work while receiving a wage that is less than you can earn per hour at the local Target or McDonalds.
While Minnesota's population ages and the need for caregivers increases, it has become increasingly challenging for Accra to attract workers to enter the profession to work at this low wage. Ensuring an adequate workforce is one of the most significant business issues we face as we aim to help more Minnesotans.
Because the health care coverage our clients receive is through Minnesota's Medicaid program, the rate the state will pay for services is capped by the state Legislature, and these rates are barely enough to cover the cost of care. So, to increase PCA wages, it is crucial to also increase reimbursement rates. Our industry needs this PCA wage increase to remain competitive with other businesses.
Thank you for your time. We greatly appreciate the Governor and Legislature’s support in investing in this critical program that helps tens of thousands of Minnesotans.