DELETE - Care Workers Shortage

The health-care sector is experiencing a severe workforce shortage, with a predicted global deficit of 10 million health workers by 2030. The care economy for both children and the elderly is another facet of society experiencing challenges. Care worker median pay is only $16 per hour, despite the intensity and qualifications required of the job. This perpetuates the gender pay gap, given that 85 percent of home care workers are women, and is also contributing to decreasing retention rates of these workers. Childcare workers face similar circumstances. Despite high costs to families, those employed in the industry often earn low wages with no benefits.  

Planners can help to play a role in remediating some of these concerns. A National League of Cities’ initiative targeting early childhood workforce development offers ideas, and cities can employ strategies such as financial literacy training and zoning updates to grow their childcare economies. For parents, states are beginning to pass legislation fill the funding gap for childcare businesses now that federal COVID-related financing has expired. For elder care and public health broadly, cities can also look to technology, inclusive design, and increased collaboration among stakeholders to improve outcomes.