Core Points - The first batch of long-term care worker vocational skill level certificates was awarded in Guangdong, promoting the standardization and professional development of the long-term care industry [1] - The long-term care worker profession emerged from the long-term care insurance system, with Guangzhou being a pilot city since 2017 [2] - A total of 101 long-term care workers received certificates, with an average age of 35, and most holding at least a college diploma [2] Group 1 - The long-term care worker profession focuses on providing care for individuals with long-term disabilities, primarily the elderly, requiring specific knowledge and skills [2] - The new national occupational standards classify long-term care workers into three levels: junior (level 5), intermediate (level 4), and senior (level 3), with increasing skill and knowledge requirements [3] - Guangdong plans to explore a payment mechanism linked to the skill level of long-term care workers, which will lead to different payment standards based on certification levels [3] Group 2 - The province aims to incorporate the certification rate of care workers into the evaluation system for care service institutions, encouraging the hiring of certified personnel and offering better salary packages [3] - The recognition of certification is expected to enhance job prospects and increase wages for long-term care workers [3] - The initiative is anticipated to motivate workers to improve their professional skills and pursue higher-level certifications [3]

Group 1 - The introduction of the Long-term Care Worker certification aims to enhance the attractiveness of the profession and address labor shortages in the industry [1][3][6] - The Long-term Care Worker is a new occupational category established to strengthen the talent pool for long-term care services and promote the high-quality development of long-term care insurance [2][6] - The average monthly income for workers in the long-term care sector in Nantong is between 5,000 to 6,000 yuan, indicating a stable income for previously unemployed individuals [2][5] Group 2 - The certification process for Long-term Care Workers is inclusive, with no educational or professional restrictions, allowing a wide range of individuals to enter the workforce [4][5] - The market response to the Long-term Care Worker certification has been positive, with over 900 applicants for the first exam, exceeding expectations [4][5] - The long-term care insurance system has been piloted in at least 49 cities across China, with Nantong being a pioneer in this initiative, leading to job creation and industry development [6][7] Group 3 - The introduction of smart home care products, such as intelligent care beds, is part of Nantong's innovative approach to enhance the long-term care industry [6][7] - The intelligent care bed addresses significant challenges in caring for disabled individuals, providing automated cleaning solutions [6][7] - The long-term care insurance fund provides an annual reimbursement of 8,000 yuan for assistive devices, which could significantly alleviate the financial burden on families if smart care products are included in the service directory [7]