HomeCare Transitions is currently looking for compassionate, dedicated caregivers who wish to work full-time or part-time jobs in Southwest Michigan. We offer variable rates of pay based on acuity or contracted rates, as well as travel time. Simply put, we're your source for outstanding caregiver careers. If you are interested in applying for any of our positions, please read the requirements below and then apply for the position today.
We're in need of Homemaker Companions (HMCs), Personal Care Assistants (PCAs), and Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs), as well as Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) and Registered Nurses (RNs). We need individuals to work in home care jobs, as well as professionals to work staff relief in assisted living facilities, long-term care facilities, nursing facilities, and hospitals. We understand that flexibility is essential to your lifestyle, which is why we offer a range of positions to meet your needs. We also offer dementia care certifications to enhance your professional profile. If you'd like to apply for one of our positions, please click here.
To ensure that our clients receive the best care available, we want to make certain that anyone who works in our care network is qualified for the job. To be considered for one of our positions, you must:
HomeCare Transitions Inc. of Battle Creek has announced the first of its kind educational program for in-home entry level care givers. Working collaboratively and in cooperation with CareWell Services Southwest and funded through a grant by the Michigan Health Endowment Fund, an apprenticeship training program for Direct Care Workers, also known as Personal Care Assistants (PCA's) was developed and implemented in Battle Creek.
CareWell Services Southwest and the State of Michigan recognized the need for improved training for Direct Care Workers who provide essential services for our most vulnerable senior population. This care is typically provided under the Medicaid Waiver Program that supports individualized senior care in the home environment instead of being placed in an institutional setting.
Initial conversations regarding the potential vision for a comprehensive program ensued with Karla Fales, Former CEO and Paulette Porter, Chief Program Officer of CareWell Services Southwest and Co-Founders of HomeCare Transitions, Inc.; Thomas J. Unger, MSW, ACSW and Patricia D. Slayton, RN, MSN.
Mr. Unger shared the vision with business associate James McKernan, BSN, MBA who immediately showed interest in the project. McKernan's resume' includes a recent retirement as Bronson Battle Creek Hospital's COO, with extensive experience in process improvement and previous nursing curriculum development and implementation. Due to his interest in the program's merit, Jim was 'drafted' to mold and teach the training program.
This program was developed with the following five Key tenets:
1.Whereas a Certified Nurse Assistants (CNA), specializes in institutional services, Direct Care Workers (PCA) provide the bulk of care to the elderly in their home.
2.Current state wide education and training are not standardized, adequate or home care setting focused.
3.PCA's do not currently require any specific training leading to certification.
4.The effective minimum wage is $15.00 per hour. Medicaid waiver reimbursement only supports and average of $10.00-$11.00 per hour, depending on participation status.
5.Recruitment and retention are difficult due to financial disincentives from community wide wage pressure and this contributes to ongoing issues with employee job satisfaction and retention.
This hands-on, high touch program includes classroom training, fieldwork training and oversight, with competency checks and return demonstrations on all key PCA skills. Registered Nurses also validate attendees' knowledge and skills in the home care setting.
"The common goal that we've always had with CareWell Services is to provide the best care and services possible to our clients, granting them the ability to thrive in their own home environment." Unger added, "It's been especially important during the pandemic that we do our part to protect and shield our vulnerable, aging population from unnecessary exposure". "By keeping them safe in their own home, we can preserve their dignity and financial resources."
"A need for well-trained caregivers has only become greater in recent times", said Pat Slayton. "I've always appreciated our team of caregivers and want to give them every possible tool of support. This apprenticeship program offers tools of education while boosting the rate of pay for the good work and caring hearts our caregivers have".
According to Jim McKernan the program is "off to a great start with eight new graduates, and they couldn't agree more!" The recent graduates rated the material as highly important and relevant to their jobs, well thought out and professionally presented.
Comments from Graduates include:
"This class was very valuable for my development as a PCA."
"I am very thankful for this training; it will enhance my capability as a PCA"
"It all came together for me."
"Presentations were humorous, serious and very informative."
Thom Unger added. "I agree with our graduates! Our goal has always been to "care for the people who care for the people. This program achieves that goal".
HomeCare Transitions cares for a range of client needs throughout Southwest Michigan. In addition to the main office located in Battle Creek, HCT has offices in St. Joseph and Kalamazoo.
HomeCare Transition is looking for future graduates. If you or someone you know is looking to get paid for a great education followed by a rewarding career, please call HomeCare Transitions at: (269) 883-6002.