Certification program for Community Health Worker

The title “Community Health Worker” means to be a front-line public health worker who is a trusted member of the community. This trusting relationship enables the Community Healthy Worker, CHW, to link health/social services and the community to facilitate access to services and improve the quality and cultural competence of service delivery.

A CHW builds the community’s knowledge in advocacy, community education, informal counselling, outreach, and social support. CHW training teaches one to communicate these activities in a 1 on 1 face-to-face format and with an audience.

CHW’s are community members that greatly assist those in need, either as a volunteer or employee, in association with local health care systems and public health care systems. CHW’s work in both urban and rural environments. A list of some key roles as a CHW is advocating for the public, acting as a cultural liaison, being a health navigator, and a health & wellness promoter.

CHW members of the public build individual and community levels of awareness in health knowledge and self-sufficiency through various activities. The activities a CHW uses in addition to their day to day duties include assisting people in receiving the care they need, being an advocate for individuals and overall community health, provide informal counseling or guidance in health-related behaviors, providing interpretation and translation of services needed for others, and providing some direct services such as first aid or blood pressure screenings.

With Haywood Community College CHW Certification Program, students will gain the required knowledge, tools, and resources to become recognized as a Certified Health Worker in North Carolina in attending the program.

In completing the CHW program, you will be able to work in Health Departments, Hospitals, Clinics, and other health care settings.

This course will encompass 96 hours for completion, and the courses are designed to cover each core competency.

Once you complete the program, you are eligible to apply to become a certified Community Healthcare Worker and listed in the NC Certified CHW Registry.

Haywood Community College (HCC) offers a different array of affordable programs with small class sizes, so students receive the personalized attention they deserve. Haywood Community College has over 31 curricular areas, 80 unique programs of study and currently serves over 2,200 students in these programs. Just over 3,600 more students attend classes through its continuing education division, including adult basic education, high school equivalency preparation, occupational courses, and community service programs. Aside from classroom instruction, students have the opportunity to participate in hands-on learning experiences through their program and student clubs.

The mission of Haywood Community College is to foster an environment that meets the educational needs of the communities it serves, promotes student success in higher education and the workplace, and facilitates economic development.