By Fordham Institute Inc.
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21 Jan, 2023
Becoming a Home Health Aide (HHA) typically involves the following steps: Meet the basic qualifications: To become an HHA, you generally need to be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or equivalent, and be in good physical and mental health. Complete an HHA training program: You will need to complete a state-approved HHA training program, which typically takes about 75-120 hours to complete. Training programs cover topics such as basic medical skills, personal care, communication, and infection control. Pass a certification exam: After completing your training program, you will need to pass a certification exam. The certification exam will test your knowledge of the topics covered in your training program. Register with the state: Once you have passed your certification exam, you will need to register with the state as a certified HHA. This may require submitting an application and paying a fee. Find a job: Once you are certified and registered, you can start looking for a job as an HHA. You may want to consider working for a home care agency, hospice, or nursing home. Some HHAs work independently as well. Keep your certification current: Many states require Home Health Aides to renew their certification every few years. In New York, you are required to take 12 hours of In-service training per year, after receiving your HHA certificate, to maintain it. It's important to note that requirements may vary by state. In New York State, you must be certified and registered as a Home Health Aide by the New York State Department of Health to work as an HHA. Becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) typically involves the following steps: Meet the basic qualifications: To become a CNA, you generally need to be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or equivalent, and be in good physical and mental health. Complete a CNA training program: You will need to complete a state-approved CNA training program. The program typically takes around 4-12 weeks to complete, and covers topics such as basic nursing skills, personal care, communication, and infection control. Pass a certification exam: After completing your training program, you will need to pass a certification exam. The certification exam will test your knowledge of the topics covered in your training program. Register with the state: Once you have passed your certification exam, you will need to register with the state as a certified CNA. This may require submitting an application and paying a fee. Find a job: Once you are certified and registered, you can start looking for a job as a CNA. You may want to consider working in a nursing home, hospital, or assisted living facility. Keep your certification current: Many states require CNAs to renew their certification every few years. You may also be required to complete continuing education to maintain your certification. It's important to note that requirements may vary by state. In New York State, you must be certified by the New York State Department of Health to work as a CNA.