CHSR is working with the New York State Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) to examine the challenges faced by Direct Care employees working with people with developmental disabilities.

OPWDD coordinates services for more than 126,000 New Yorkers with developmental disabilities. They provide services both directly and through a network of approximately 700 non-profit service providers throughout the state. The CHSR study will focus on state-run services, comprising about 20% of all services provided.

Evaluation & Research

CHSR is conducting a mail and electronic worker survey and a series of worker focus groups to obtain the insights and perceptions of direct care staff. Both methods will focus on employee skills and support in dealing with safety issues facing their clients.

For more information, contact Dr. Sandra McGinnis.