A Healthcare Worker's Percpective
I have been employed in the health and human service industry for the past fifteen years. Many of those years were spent in the non-profit sector. I watch as the number of people needing services increases but the number of people to provide the services stays the same or in some circumstances decreases.
These providers rely primarily for financial support from the government to sustain their services. When funding is cut it directly affects the quantity and quality of services we can provide. Providers have to be creative in finding ways to continue offering quality services.
I am currently a social worker in a small rural county. We are presently experiencing some major cuts in our funding that has led significant budget cuts to our human service department. Myself and co-workers are taking on larger caseloads and other job responsibilities in place of rehiring a full-time position that is vacant. While not replacing this full-time position will help, it is only a small fraction of the total budget we will need to make adjustments to.
What I find frustrating is that when these budget cuts are passed down to us, we are expected to accommodate them quickly. This can lead to hasty decisions being made without thinking about the long term affects. There is the potential for people to "fall through the cracks" when there are gaps in services. Many of these people are children who rely on these services to provide them with food, shelter and clothing. Their access to these necessities should not be compromised. We all need to advocate for a change to protect those who are already vulnerable.
It's hard to hear that when funding is cut it directly affects the quantity and quality of services provided. I feel like cost shouldn't affect these factors at all. It's so frustrating and sad when people have to choose between their health care and everything else. Thanks for your comment.
ReplyDeleteI think it would be hard to see that many patients just aren't getting the type of care that they need due to a decreased workforce. I think it is sad that with all the help that is provided, that some care is being overlooked due to time constraints. Unfortunatley, the quality of care is decreased to the patients that are being served.
ReplyDeleteI think it is sad when those in desperate need of help can't get it, especially when that includes children. Our sick and poor should be number one on our list of those to help get back on there feet.
ReplyDeleteIt is unfortunate that the quantity and quality of services that are needed by patients are compromised because of funding being cut. I agree with the idea that people that are sick and poor should be on the top of our priority list in those receiving assistance, especially when children are involved.
ReplyDeleteThanks for contributing to this class blog; I appreciate the important points you offered in your post. Please feel welcome to comment on any other part of this blog.
ReplyDeleteA health care system needs to be created that cares for everyone---no matter what. We all want to enjoy a high quality of life, and it is extremely sad when you hear stories about the ones who 'slipped through the cracks'.
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