Recruiting, Selecting, and Retaining Direct Service Workers to Provide Self-Directed HCBS

Module 1: Understanding Self-Directed Supports

• Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services – Self-Directed Services
• Veteran Directed Care Programs
• Self-Directed Care: A Complete Guide to Roles

Module 2: Finding the Right DSW for You

• Skills Questionnaire
• Find, Choose and Keep Great DSPs

Module 3: Selecting and Hiring the Right DSW for You

• Interview Questionnaire Worksheet
• DSW Finalist Worksheet 
• Roberta’s DSW Finalist Worksheet
• Personal Care and Support Planning Tool
• Four Types of Questions to Ask in a Caregiver Interview
• 11 Questions to Ask a Potential Caregiver
• Caregiver Interview Questions
• Rank Job Applicants Free Template
• Realistic Job Preview Example 

Module 4: Welcoming and Training Your New DSW

• Orientation Checklist
• CMS Core Competencies
• Training Plan Example
• Training Plan Template
• SMART Goals
• Example of a Formal Evaluation

Training Resources

 There are many more resources that can be found with an internet search or by asking health care providers what organizations they would recommend. Note: Some of the trainings available through these organizations require payment of a fee to participate or to purchase access to the training. Some states provide free access to these programs for direct service workers. Check with your state disability or aging agency.

• United Spinal Association – for information about spinal cord injuries 
• Alzheimer’s Association – for information about Alzheimer’s and other dementia
• Brain Injury Association – for information about brain injuries 
• National Alliance on Mental Illness – for information about mental illness 
• The Arc – for information about intellectual disabilities 
• University Centers for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities Education, Research, and Service (UCEDD)  - for information about developmental disabilities and other resources
• Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental and Related Disabilities (LEND) - programs may offer training relevant to people who support individuals with intellectual or other disabilities. 
• The National Alliance for Direct Support Professionals (NADSP) - a national credentialing program for direct support professionals. 
• The National Family Caregiver Support Program - training and support for family caregivers providing long-term services and supports. 
• DirectCourse College of Direct Supports and College of Personal Assistance and Caregiving - online training program 

Module 5: Supporting DSW Professionalism

• The National Alliance for Direct Support Professionals' Code of Ethics
• The National Domestic Violence Hotline:  Supporting Survivors with Disabilities: When Your Abusive Partner is Also Your Caregiver

Module 6: Recognizing and Managing DSW Stress and Burnout

• Greater Good Science Center
• Caregiver Stress and Burnout 
• Caregiver Stress: Tips for Taking Care of Yourself.
• Meditations for Caregivers

Note: Resources listed on this page are provided for informational purposes only and do not necessarily reflect the views of CMS.