Home Health Aide Hourly Earnings in NY

Home Health Aides in New York

Home Health Aides (HHAs) play a critical role in supporting individuals with disabilities and their families. This section provides insight into the role of HHAs and their average hourly earnings in the state of New York.

Overview of Home Health Aides

Home Health Aides, often referred to as caregivers or personal care aides, provide assistance to individuals who have disabilities, chronic illnesses, or cognitive impairments. They help with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, and eating. In many cases, they also take on responsibilities such as light housekeeping, meal preparation, and medication administration.

In New York, the demand for Home Health Aides is high, particularly for those who have experience working with children with disabilities. The services they provide are vital in supporting the well-being and independence of the people they care for.

Hourly Wage Statistics

In terms of compensation, the earnings of Home Health Aides in New York can vary depending on factors such as experience, qualifications, and location within the state.

As of May 2023, the mean hourly wage for Home Health and Personal Care Aides in New York was $17.38, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

However, the average hourly rate for a caregiver in New York is slightly lower, at $15.25, with rates ranging from $12.75 to $17.75 per hour. The hourly rate can rise to $15.33 in New York City, as reported by Human Care NY.

For those providing more specialized services, the average rate for a home health aide in New York is $28 per hour, making it one of the most expensive states for this type of care in the nation. Likewise, the average hourly rate for homemaker services in New York is $26.

These figures provide an overview of 'how much do home health aides make an hour in NY?', but it's important to note that actual earnings can vary. Factors such as additional qualifications, years of experience, and the complexity of the care required can affect the hourly rate.

Programs and Services

Understanding the rates associated with different types of care is crucial when choosing the most suitable and affordable service for your disabled child in New York. Here, we provide a breakdown of the costs for caregivers, homemakers, home health aides, and adult day care services in the state.

Caregiver Rates in New York

In New York, the average hourly rate for a caregiver stands at $15.25, with rates fluctuating between $12.75 and $17.75 per hour. The rates in New York City specifically average at $15.33 per hour, slightly lower than the national average. Generally, caregiver rates in New York range from $15 to $25 per hour, and the rate can vary depending on experience levels and geographical location [1].

Homemaker and Aide Rates

As for homemaker services, New York's average hourly rate is $26, placing it amongst the highest in the nation for this type of care. On a similar note, home health aides in New York are amongst the most costly in the U.S., with an average hourly rate of $28 [1].

Adult Day Care Costs

Regarding adult day care services, the median daily rate in New York is $125, higher than the national median of $75 per day. In terms of more intensive care, the average monthly base rate for assisted living in New York stands at $4,057, a figure significantly higher than the national average of $3,628 per month [1].

Ultimately, these figures offer a snapshot of the financial implications associated with different types of care in New York. By understanding these costs, families can make more informed decisions about the most suitable and affordable care options for their disabled children.

Qualifications and Training

This section outlines the qualifications and trainings required to become an Advanced Home Health Aide (AHHA) in New York, the criteria for New York State Medication Aide Certification, and the responsibilities of an AHHA.

Becoming an AHHA in New York

To become an Advanced Home Health Aide (AHHA) in New York, individuals must complete a New York State approved AHHA Training Program. This program includes a minimum of 125 hours of instruction, which comprises classroom and skills lab training, as well as RN supervised patient care training. Apart from this, candidates must also have a high school diploma or similar credential, be listed in New York State's Home Care Worker Registry as a certified home health aide, and have at least a year of home care experience. Language skills in English and basic math are also required, and candidates must be 18 or older. Additionally, candidates must be recently trained in or currently certified in CPR or Basic Life Support before starting AHHA coursework.

New York State Medication Aide Certification

AHHA candidates are required to pass the New York State Medication Aide Certification Examination (MACE®). This written examination tests the knowledge of home health aides to administer certain medications under RN supervision. Individuals must graduate from a New York State approved AHHA Training Program before they can register for the MACE®. Candidates have two chances to pass the MACE® within 180 days from the start of the AHHA training program. If they do not pass within this period, they will have to re-complete the AHHA Training Program before being allowed to retake the MACE®.

AHHA Responsibilities

An Advanced Home Health Aide (AHHA) is a certified home health aide with additional home care experience and training, who is qualified under New York State Law to perform "advanced tasks" under the direct supervision of an RN. AHHA's are listed in New York State's Home Care Worker Registry as an AHHA. They may perform "advanced tasks" for certain hospice and home care patients under RN supervision, provided the RN assigns the tasks in writing. Both the AHHA and RN must work for the same hospice, home care services agency, or enhanced assisted living residence and provide care to their employer's patients at home [2].

Advanced tasks that can be performed by AHHAs under RN supervision include certain nursing tasks commonly performed by licensed practical nurses in a patient's home. These tasks include glucose monitoring, ostomy care, tracheostomy care, catheterization, administration of oral medication, and administration of topical medication. However, advanced tasks do not include activities such as intravenous therapy, intramuscular or subcutaneous injections, or any tasks performed through an open surgical incision or wound [2].

AHHA Registry and Renewal

Understanding the registration and renewal process for Advanced Home Health Aides (AHHA) in New York is vital for those looking to hire or maintain a position as an AHHA. This section will delve into the New York State Home Care Worker Registry and the process of AHHA certification renewal.

New York's Home Care Worker Registry

The New York State Home Care Worker Registry is a comprehensive database maintained by the New York State Department of Health (DOH). The registry contains the names of individuals who have obtained certification as home health aides, personal care aides, and AHHAs within New York State. The registry also includes the names of approved AHHA Training Programs.

After verification, a certified AHHA is listed on the Home Care Worker Registry, providing a resource for families and individuals seeking to hire a certified home health aide. The registry ensures transparency and allows employers to verify the certification status of potential hires.

This registry plays a vital role in maintaining the quality and credibility of home health services within the state. It allows for easy verification of certifications, ensuring that all registered AHHAs have undergone the necessary training and meet the required standards [2].

AHHA Certification Renewal

Keeping AHHA certifications up-to-date is crucial for both the aides themselves and the people they care for. Current certifications ensure that AHHA's are providing the most accurate and effective care based on up-to-date practices and standards.

In New York, AHHA certifications are valid for three years. After this period, they must be renewed by the AHHA's employer. The renewal process also involves updating the Home Health Aide (HHA) certification and paying a recertification fee.

It's important to note that the responsibility for renewal lies with the employer. This ensures that all AHHAs working under an employer's supervision are fully certified and meet the necessary training and competency standards. Maintaining current certifications is essential for providing the best possible care and maintaining the trust and confidence of those who rely on these services.

In summary, the New York State Home Care Worker Registry and the process of AHHA certification renewal form the backbone of quality control in the home health industry in New York. They ensure that all AHHAs are fully trained, certified, and equipped to provide the best possible care for those in need.

Advanced Tasks for AHHAs

Advanced Home Health Aides (AHHAs) within New York state are permitted to perform a range of advanced tasks under the direct supervision of a Registered Nurse (RN), providing the RN assigns these tasks in writing. The AHHA and RN must work for the same hospice, home care services agency, or enhanced assisted living residence and provide care to their employer's patients at home [2].

Scope of Advanced Tasks

The scope of advanced tasks performed by AHHAs is determined by New York State Law. These tasks go beyond the standard duties of a home health aide and involve certain nursing tasks that are commonly performed by licensed practical nurses in a patient's home.

Examples of Advanced Tasks

AHHAs are trained to perform a variety of advanced tasks under the supervision of an RN. Some of these tasks include:

• Glucose monitoring
• Ostomy care
• Tracheostomy care
• Catheterization
• Administration of oral medication
• Administration of topical medication

These tasks allow AHHAs to provide a higher level of care to patients, particularly those with specific medical needs.

Limitations on Advanced Tasks

Despite the advanced training and skills of AHHAs, there are certain tasks that they are not permitted to perform. These limitations are put in place to ensure the safety and well-being of patients. Advanced tasks do not include activities such as:

• Intravenous therapy
• Intramuscular or subcutaneous injections
• Any tasks performed through an open surgical incision or wound

These tasks require specialized training and are typically performed by licensed nurses or other healthcare professionals.

In summary, Advanced Home Health Aides play a significant role in home healthcare, providing advanced care services under the supervision of Registered Nurses. Their services are invaluable in ensuring that patients receive the care they need in the comfort of their own homes. However, like all healthcare professionals, AHHAs must operate within the legal scope of their roles to maintain patient safety and well-being.

References

[1]: https://www.humancareny.com/blog/rate-for-caregiver-in-new-york/

‍[2]: https://www.op.nysed.gov/professions/clinical-nurse-specialists/advanced-home-health-aides

[3]: https://www.health.ny.gov/facilities/home_care/advanced_home_health_aides/