First and foremost, you need a program that is easy for caregivers to access. Is the one you’re considering offered online? Online availability allows content retrieval 24/7, so learners can assess information at their convenience to meet their individual learning needs. Most full-time caregivers have family and community responsibilities outside of work that consume their time. Flexibility around other obligations is a must when choosing education for your busy caregivers.

Subject Matter Provided by Long Term Care Education

When choosing an education program, always consider the level and amount of information offered. Content should build upon student’s current knowledge of client care but should also provide advanced education including management of chronic diseases. Providing caregivers training in specialized chronic disease care, helps set your organization apart and offers an immediate return on your investment. Creating an elite pool of specialized caregivers will push your organization ahead of your competition.

Long Term Care Education’s Ability to Reduce Hospitalization Rates

When contemplating advanced education for your aides, determine your organization’s current hospitalization and rehospitalization rates. If you currently struggle with high rates, you want to participate in a program that provides the necessary knowledge to reduce those numbers. Properly educated caregivers are better aware of warning signs to look for in order to manage health concerns before they get escalate to the need for hospitalization.

Employee Satisfaction and Long Term Care Education

Employee turnover is a real issue for most healthcare providers, and can be devastating to your bottom line. While some turnover is to be expected, too much costs your organization valuable time and money. Providing an opportunity for employees to advance their education is a simple, efficient way to increase retention. With continued education, aides gain a career path and become more satisfied in their jobs, knowing there’s opportunity for personal growth. Consider if the education program you choose educates caregivers enough to impact your current recruitment and retention rates.

Improved Client Care as a Result of Long Term Care Education

Clients and their families are the backbone of your organization. What are you doing to ensure their satisfaction? Well-educated, content aides play a huge role in the happiness of clients. Not only because happiness is contagious, but also because of the higher level of care top-notch aides are able to provide. As a result, clients and their families sing the praises of your organization to their physicians and refer their friends. Everyone’s happy; it’s a win-win. To make the most out of your advanced education program, find out how well it prepares aides to offer the improved client care your clients demand.

Your organization doesn’t have to stand still; it can soar above the rest with long term care education. Knowing what to look for in an education program puts you on the right track toward success.