What You Need to Know About Becoming a Certified Community Health Worker
Are you passionate about helping people lead healthy lives and want to make a difference in your community? If yes, then becoming a Certified Community Health Worker might be an excellent career choice for you. In recent years, there has been a growing demand for certified community health workers due to their ability to bridge the gap between healthcare systems and affected communities.
Who is a Community Health Worker?
A Community Health Worker (CHW) is a public health professional who works with community members to promote wellness and healthy behaviors. They serve as a liaison between healthcare providers and community members, connecting individuals to resources, providing basic healthcare services, and helping people navigate complex healthcare systems. CHWs do not provide medical care themselves, but instead, they educate and support individuals with similar backgrounds and experiences as their clients.
What are the Certification Requirements?
Becoming a certified Community Health Worker requires specialized training and certification. Different states have various requirements to attain certification, but most programs require a high school diploma or equivalent, a clean criminal record, and completion of an accredited CHW training program. Training programs can range from 80 hours to 160 hours, and may cover topics such as cultural competency, communication skills, healthcare systems, and community resources.
What Skills do Community Health Workers Need?
CHWs need a diverse skill set to be successful in their role. Excellent communication skills, patience, and empathy are essential to build rapport and establish trust with clients. Problem-solving skills are necessary to assist clients in navigating the complex healthcare systems and identify resources to address their needs. Knowledge of community resources, cultural competency, and organizational skills help CHWs connect clients to vital healthcare services that they may not have known about otherwise.
What are the Job Prospects for Community Health Workers?
As of May 2020, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that there were nearly 67,000 people employed as Community Health Workers in the United States. Employment in this field is expected to grow by 13% from 2019-2029, which is much faster than the average for all occupations. The demand for CHWs is fueled by the need for healthcare workers who can address the cultural and linguistic differences that often exist between healthcare providers and patients.
Conclusion
Becoming a Certified Community Health Worker is an excellent way to make a meaningful impact on the lives of individuals and communities. The certification process requires specialized training and education, and CHWs need a diverse skill set to succeed in their role. The demand for CHWs is growing, and there is immense potential for individuals looking to pursue a career in this field. With the right qualifications and training, you could be the bridge between communities and healthcare systems that make all the difference in someone’s life.
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