Establish standards for direct care workers

I applaud Charlotte Nelson's Aug. 9 guest column, “Why we should value direct care,” and I echo her arguments about the need for better training and recognition for direct care professionals.

As a direct care professional myself, I know that standard education and credentialing will strengthen our work force and help ensure quality care for Iowans. Iowans should ask their state legislators and candidates to support creation of the Board of Direct Care Professionals, which would set education standards and issue credentials. This is a key part of the solution to make sure workers are qualified and skilled, reduce costly turnover and meet growing demand for services and give caregivers like me the professional status we deserve.

Scott McDowell

Cedar Rapids