The Vista Pública de la Comisión de Hacienda, Asuntos Federales y Junta de Supervisión Fiscal held on May 9, 2024, focused on critical issues regarding social services for the elderly and the challenges faced by social workers in Puerto Rico. The meeting addressed the current state of social work services, particularly the frequency of visits to subsidized homes for the elderly, and the staffing shortages impacting service delivery.

The session began with discussions on the responsibilities of assigned social workers, who are expected to visit subsidized homes at least once a month. However, concerns were raised about whether this standard is being met. Officials acknowledged that while there is a system in place for tracking visits through progress notes and case files, the actual frequency of visits often falls short of expectations. It was noted that with approximately 6,100 elderly individuals and only 332 social workers, the current staffing levels are insufficient to provide the necessary oversight and support.

A significant point of contention was the need for more social workers to ensure adequate service delivery. Participants highlighted the challenges in recruiting and retaining qualified personnel, citing generational issues and competitive salaries as major barriers. The discussion revealed that many social workers leave shortly after being hired, often due to dissatisfaction with working conditions and pay.

To address these staffing issues, the agency has initiated collaborations with local universities to encourage students to enter the social work field. Incentives such as monthly stipends for students in training were proposed to retain new graduates within the system for a minimum of two years after completing their studies.

The meeting also touched on the broader implications of these staffing shortages, emphasizing the need for accurate data to advocate for increased funding and resources. Officials expressed the importance of establishing metrics to monitor social worker performance and service delivery effectively. This data would be crucial in justifying requests for additional funding to support the growing elderly population.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the urgent need for enhanced social services for the elderly in Puerto Rico, highlighting the critical role of social workers and the systemic challenges that hinder effective service delivery. The discussions set the stage for future actions aimed at improving staffing levels and ensuring that vulnerable populations receive the support they need.