Becoming a Certified Home Health Aide
BrightStar Care® is committed to bringing our clients the highest standard of care with highly trained professionals who provide exceptional in-home care. Certified home health aides (CCHAs) play a significant role in bringing our mission to life, helping us deliver outstanding care through a combination of their expertise and compassion.What is a Home Health Aide?
Certified home health aides assist clients with activities of daily living – such as bathing, dressing and mobility – and even general companionship. Typically, certified home health aides work in residential settings such as in-home care, group homes and assisted living facilities.How to Become a Certified Home Health Aide
Requirements to become a certified home health aide vary slightly by state, so it’s important to research and follow the specific standards in your state to obtain proper certification. Most states require a high school diploma or GED, as well as successful completion of a state-approved training program. Comprehensive training programs for HHA certification will cover various topics and include both classroom instruction and supervised practical training.Most HHA certification programs include a home health aide certification exam and registration for a state license. Some states also require ongoing education to maintain certification and individual employers may also have additional requirements.
BrightStar Care’s Support
As part of our commitment to our employees and delivering the highest standard of care possible, BrightStar Care® can help you obtain caregiver certification status if required in your state. Speak with a local BrightStar Care® agency about job requirements and paid training offerings.Home Health Aide Certification FAQs
What are the education requirements to become a Home Health Aide?
Educational requirements to become a certified HHA vary by state, but most states require at least a high school diploma or GED, as well as successful completion of a state-approved certification training program. Be sure to research and follow the specific guidelines for your state and any states where you plan to provide services.How long does it take to become a Certified Home Health Aide?
The time it takes to become a certified HHA varies by state and program requirements. While some programs are self-directed and can take just a few weeks, some training programs are more comprehensive and will require approximately 75 hours of in-person training.Does BrightStar Care offer any help with HHA certification?
Depending on state requirements, BrightStar Care can help you earn home health aide certification status. Speak with your local BrightStar Care agency to inquire about assistance with paid training.What does the HHA certification exam cover?
Typically, the HHA certification exam consists of both a written portion and a practical skills test. The written portion of the exam involves answering multiple choice questions, while the practical skills assessment covers everything from taking vital signs to general care and comfort of clients.What is the difference between an HHA and a CNA?
A home health aide (HHA) typically works in a residential setting, assisting clients with activities of daily living. By contrast, a certified nursing assistant (CNA) also assists with basic patient care and activities of daily living, but their training also qualifies them to observe and report changes in their client’s condition. Depending on where a CNA is licensed and practicing, they may be able to assist with delegated nursing tasks, although requirements vary by state. A CNA can work in multiple settings, including in a client’s home, as well as in a hospital, nursing home or care facility.What kind of work schedule can I expect as a Home Health Aide with BrightStar Care?
Because clients may need help at all times of day, certified HHA schedules vary greatly. A client may have a team of HHAs who work with them at different times of day, rotating shifts. For certified HHAs, positions can be part-time or full-time and are usually quite flexible.What to Expect After Completing Your HHA Certification
Once you complete a certified home health aide training program and pass the HHA certification exam to become licensed in your state, you have a diverse array of employment opportunities.BrightStar Care® welcomes qualified CHHAs to apply for positions nationwide. Find a BrightStar Care agency near you or browse through our Career Opportunities page for an open position in your area and apply. If your application is selected, we’ll move forward with an in-depth interview to discuss your skills and expertise, conduct background checks, drug screening, reference checks and licensing verification.
Why Become a Certified Home Health Aide with BrightStar Care®?
We know that happy and supported employees help us fulfill our mission and commitment to high-quality care for our clients. BrightStar Care® is just as committed to our workforce as we are to our clients.Certified HHAs that choose BrightStar Care® enjoy several benefits*, including a competitive salary, flexible work schedules, professional growth opportunities and the chance to make a real difference in clients’ lives.
Ready to Make a Difference as a Home Health Aide?
Earning your certification as a home health aide takes time and dedication. However, the rewards are numerous. Certified HHAs are in demand now more than ever, providing you with a stable and fulfilling career path. Additionally, your role as a CHHA means that you are making a real difference in the lives of those you care for and their loved ones.*Employment benefits and perks vary. Contact your local BrightStar Care agency for details about what benefits are offered.