How To Get Home Health Aide Certification

Health & Medical Blog

Becoming a certified home health aide (HHA) is a great way to start a career in the healthcare industry. HHAs provide basic medical and personal care services to patients in their homes and often work with elderly or disabled patients. In most states, HHAs must complete a certification program before they can begin working. Here's everything you need to know about getting your HHA certification.

Home Health Aide Certification Requirements

The first step to obtaining HHA certification is to make sure you meet the basic requirements. While many employers require applicants to be 18 years of age, it is not a requirement in most states. Training is more important than age. In fact, while the federal government requires a minimum of 75 hours of training, some states require even more. Additionally, many states require HHAs to pass a background check and have CPR certification. 

Finding a Home Health Aide Training Program

There are many different ways to find a home health aide training program. One option is to contact your local community college or adult education center and ask if they offer any HHA courses. Many of these programs can be completed in just a few weeks and may even offer night or weekend classes to accommodate your schedule. Additionally, you can bundle the HHA courses that you take with general education courses to earn an associate's degree.

You can also find several online HHA training programs that will allow you to complete your courses at your own pace. However, you will likely be required to take an in-person skills test before you can receive your certification. These programs are typically accelerated, taking only a few weeks to complete.

Taking the Home Health Aide Certification Exam

Once you have completed a training program, you will need to take the HHA certification exam in order to become certified. The exam covers multiple health and safety topics, including:

  • Infection control
  • Personal care techniques
  • Communication skills
  • Patient rights
  • Emergency procedures

After passing the exam, you will receive your HHA certification, which is typically valid for several years. You will need to renew your certification regularly by taking additional continuing education courses or retaking the HHA certification exam.

If you're interested in starting a career in healthcare, becoming a certified home health aide is a great option. The process of getting certified is relatively simple. You just need to make sure you meet the basic requirements, find a training program that works for you, and pass the HHA certification exam. 

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15 November 2022

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