Home Health Aide Programs in Portland, Oregon

Becoming a Home Health Aide in Portland, Oregon

Are you considering a rewarding career as a Home Health Aide (HHA) in Portland, Oregon? This guide will walk you through the steps to becoming an HHA, including the necessary training and certification requirements. Home Health Aides, also known as personal care aides or home care aides, provide essential support to individuals who need assistance with daily living activities. There are various educational paths to becoming an HHA, often involving training programs that are part of Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) courses.

About Portland

Portland, Oregon, known for its unique culture and scenic beauty, is a city that offers a rich blend of urban and natural attractions. From the historic Pearl District to the lush landscapes of Forest Park, Portland is a place where community and nature coexist. For more information about the city, visit the official Portland website.

Home Health Aide Training Programs in Portland, Oregon

If you’re looking to become a Home Health Aide in Portland, several local institutions offer relevant training programs:

  1. Portland Community College (PCC)
    • Program: PCC offers a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) program that includes the necessary training to become a Home Health Aide. The program covers essential skills and provides supervised clinical experience.
    • Location: Various campuses across Portland.
    • Website: PCC CNA Program
  2. Caregiver Training Institute
    • Program: This institute provides a comprehensive CNA program that meets the state requirements for Home Health Aide training, including both classroom instruction and clinical practice.
    • Location: Northeast Portland.
    • Website: Caregiver Training Institute
  3. Mt. Hood Community College
    • Program: Offers a CNA program that prepares students for certification and employment as Home Health Aides, focusing on both theoretical and practical skills.
    • Location: Gresham, a short drive from Portland.
    • Website: Mt. Hood Community College CNA Program

Home Health Aide Employment Opportunities in Portland

Portland is home to numerous healthcare facilities and agencies that offer employment opportunities for Home Health Aides:

  1. Providence Home Services
    • Description: Part of the Providence Health & Services network, this agency provides a range of home care services and is a major employer of HHAs in the region.
    • Location: Multiple locations throughout Portland.
    • Website: Providence Home Services Careers
  2. Kaiser Permanente Northwest
    • Description: A leading healthcare provider in the Pacific Northwest, offering diverse career opportunities for Home Health Aides.
    • Location: Various facilities across Portland.
    • Website: Kaiser Permanente Careers
  3. Visiting Angels
    • Description: A well-known home care agency providing personalized care services, with opportunities for HHAs to work in different settings.
    • Location: Southeast Portland.
    • Website: Visiting Angels Careers

Prerequisites for Home Health Aide Programs

To enroll in a Home Health Aide program in Portland, you typically need to meet the following prerequisites:
– Minimum age of 18 years.
– High school diploma or GED.
– Completion of a background check.
– Medical clearance, including TB test and vaccination records.
– Valid photo ID.

Home Health Aide Certification Requirements in Oregon

In Oregon, becoming a Home Health Aide involves several steps:

  • Complete a Training Program: At least 75 hours of training, including 16 hours of supervised clinical practice.
  • CNA Certification: Obtain certification through the Oregon State Board of Nursing by completing a CNA program and passing the competency evaluation.
  • Competency Evaluation: Assessment by a registered nurse in essential care areas.
  • Mandatory Orientation: Attend orientation provided by local APD and AAA offices.
  • Background Checks: Complete state and FBI background checks.
  • Continuing Education: 12 hours of continuing education annually.

For more details, visit the Oregon State Board of Nursing.

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as a Home Health Aide in Portland, Oregon, is a fulfilling journey that offers the chance to make a significant impact on people’s lives. With the right training and certification, you can join the ranks of dedicated professionals in this growing field. Contact a local school or training program today to begin your path toward becoming an HHA.

For more information on the job outlook for Home Health Aides, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics.