Home Health Aide Certification In Ohio
If you’re interested in pursuing a career as a home health aide in Ohio, you’ll need to complete the state’s certification process. Becoming an HHA requires you to complete a short training program and an examination, but once this is complete, you can expect a fulfilling career as a carer. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to become a certified HHA, including the training requirements, eligibility criteria, and job outlook. Whether you’re just starting your career or looking to make a change, this guide can help you get started.
Licensing Requirements In Ohio
In Ohio, home health aides (HHAs) are required to be certified by the Ohio Department of Health (ODH). To become certified, students need to complete a state-approved home health aide training program and pass a competency examination. Additionally, candidates must meet the following home health aide requirements:
- At least 18 years old
- A high school diploma or equivalent
- Undergo a criminal background check and meet ODH’s standards for moral character
- Free from communicable diseases and able provide proof of this
- Complete HHA training in Ohio
Once these requirements are met, students can apply for their home health aide certification with the Ohio Department of Health. This certification will be valid for around two years.
It’s important to remember that home health aides don’t need to be licensed to work in the healthcare industry.
Still, they will need to be registered with the Ohio Department of Jobs and Family Services if they want to work as an independent professional and not with a home health agency. So it may be best to obtain a home health aide certificate before seeking employment or offering services.
HHA Certification In Ohio
Home health aides are required to be certified in the state of Ohio to work in the industry. To obtain this certification, candidates will first need to complete a training program that meets the state’s minimum requirements.
These programs should have a minimum of 75 hours of training, with at least 16 hours of supervised clinical training. They will also need to be approved by the ODH and cover topics such as infection control, personal care, basic nursing skills, and communication.
After completing the necessary training, candidates must then pass competency evaluations that include written examinations and skills demonstrations. Each evaluation should be conducted by a state-approved evaluator. Of course, trainee home health aides should ensure that they meet the eligibility requirements before taking the exams.
At the end of the HHA training and examinations, candidates can apply for certification with the ODH.
Best Education Programs
There are several institutions for HHA training in Ohio. Some of the best HHA training programs include:
Cincinnati State Technical and Community College
- Program: Nurse Aide Training Certificate
- Contact: 1-513-569-1500
- Address: 3520 Central Pkwy, Cincinnati, OH 45223
Med-Cert Training Center
- Program: Home Health Aide Training Classes
- Contact: 1-440-786-2378
- Address: 20 West Grace, Bedford, OH 44146
Premier Choice Health Service
- Program: State Testing Nursing Assistant classes
- Contact: 1-614-896-6420
- Address: 1901 E Dublin Granville Rd UNIT 201, Columbus, OH 43229
Sinclair Community College
- Program: Home Health Aide Technical Certificate
- Contact: 1-937-512-3000
- Address: 444 W Third St, Dayton, OH 45402
Job Outlook
The job outlook for home health aides in Ohio is strong and expected to grow in the coming years. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, job opportunities for HHAs are expected to grow by 25% from 2021 to 2031. This is much faster than the average for other occupations.
Salaries
In the United States, the average salary for HHAs is around $29,400 per year. In Ohio, the average annual salary for an HHA is $27,910. However, the actual amount you earn will differ depending on your experience and employer.
Where To Find Work
Home health aide jobs are plentiful in Ohio, with most professionals gaining employment in private homes, palliative care facilities, and community or group homes. Once trainees are certified, they can approach home health agencies, hospitals, nursing homes, hospice organizations, and similar facilities to secure employment.
FAQs
How often do I need to renew my home health aide certification in Ohio?
Home health aides are required to renew their certification every two years. To be eligible for renewal, candidates will need to complete around 12 hours of continuing education training and submit their documentation to the ODH.
How long does it take to complete home health aide training program in Ohio?
Depending on which institution trainees study with, it can take around 2-3 weeks to complete training. However, it may take longer if the training is coupled with another program.
How much does it cost to become a certified home health aide in Ohio?
The cost of HHA certification in the state of Ohio may depend on the training center students choose. Generally, most programs range from $400 – $1,000, while some may be more or less expensive. There are several home health agencies that provide training to candidates for free, although students may still be required to pay for the certification examinations.
Sources
https://new.mymedcert.com/hha_entrance_page/
https://www.cincinnatistate.edu/academics/degree-certificate/nurse-aide-training-certificate-natc/
http://www.nurseokeke.com/home-health-aide-training-programs
https://www.caregiverlist.com/ohio/euclid/training-program/1195/phoenix-healthcare-institute.aspx
https://www.sinclair.edu/program/params/programCode/HCA-S-STC/
http://www.homehealthaideonline.com/home/hha-training-in-ohio/