New Jersey officials announced a wide-ranging plan to address critical shortages in the state's healthcare workforce , laying out strategies to recruit, train and retain the employees who support older adults, people with disabilities and those with behavioral health needs.

The Direct Care Workforce Strategic Plan , released Dec. 10, is the state’s latest attempt to stabilize a field that has struggled for years with high turnover and job vacancies.

Direct care worker help run group homes, assisted living facilities and community therapy programs, but the state's disability ombudsman and legislative hearings have long warned of a crisis in staffing levels.

“Since before COVID-19, direct care workers have been challenged by increased demand and diminished ranks, as needs become mo

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