1. Exploring a career pathway for home support workers in Ireland: a systematic scoping review of the international evidence.
- Author
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Morrow, Elizabeth, Kelly, Carmel, Killeen, Clodagh, Naessens, Edward, and Lynch, Mary
- Subjects
MEDICAL information storage & retrieval systems ,EMPLOYEE retention ,HOME care services ,MEDICAL quality control ,INTERPROFESSIONAL relations ,SELF-management (Psychology) ,GOVERNMENT policy ,PROFESSIONAL practice ,RESEARCH funding ,CINAHL database ,MEDICAL care ,LEADERSHIP ,WORK environment ,POPULATION health ,DECISION making ,EVALUATION of medical care ,SYSTEMATIC reviews ,PATIENT-centered care ,MEDLINE ,THEMATIC analysis ,MOTIVATION (Psychology) ,LITERATURE reviews ,CLINICAL competence ,PROFESSIONAL employee training ,MEDICAL research ,LABOR demand ,TECHNOLOGY ,ONLINE information services ,DATA analysis software ,VOCATIONAL guidance ,PSYCHOLOGY information storage & retrieval systems ,LABOR supply ,EMPLOYEE attitudes ,EMERGENCY management - Abstract
Background: In prosperous nations like Ireland, home support workers (HSWs) play an increasingly vital role in providing person-centred care to ageing populations. However, challenges such as workforce shortages, role ambiguity, low pay, and limited career advancement, hinder workforce development and career building. Method: A scoping review using key terms for "HSWs" and "career pathways" was conducted following the Joanna Briggs Institute Methodology, examining electronic databases (Web of Science, PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, PscyINFO, Social Care Online, Social Sciences Citation Index). Inclusion criteria were applied, and a thematic analysis followed and inductive-deductive approach. Results: The review encompassed 261 relevant articles from different countries. Four key themes were identified: (1) Data-driven decision-making on the future workforce, (2) Attracting and developing a competent and motivated home support workforce, (3) Enhancing working lives and retention at every stage of career pathways, and (4) Crafting career pathways to improve quality and impact. Discussion: Leadership, collaboration, and data-driven decision-making across policy, research and practice are pivotal for expanding and enhancing home support. Emphasising a shift towards preventative self-management models, supported by digitally skilled and regulated HSWs, could enhance independence and quality of care. Clear career structures, professional development, and inclusive organisational environments are essential to attract, retain, and empower a competent and motivated workforce, fostering quality and impact. Conclusion: This scoping review provides foundational evidence to establish career pathways for HSWs, identifying key areas for development such as data collection, care model transformation, career progression structures, and systems for safety and quality improvement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2024
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