Get Certified & Make a Difference

Free Online Community Health Worker Certification

Have you ever thought about a career where you can make a real difference in your community? Where are you not just clocking in and out but actually helping people live healthier lives? Becoming a certified Community Health Worker might be your calling. And guess what? You can get certified online for free.

In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know:

• What exactly is a Community Health Worker (CHW) Certification?
• What does CHW certification involve?
• Why get certified in the first place? (Hint: it opens doors!)
• Where to find the best free online CHW certification programs.

Speaking of community, as the Illinois Community Health Workers Association (ILCHWA), We are all about empowering CHWs and improving health outcomes across Illinois.

Let’s get started.

What is a Community Health Worker (CHW) Certification?

A Community Health Worker (CHW) is like a bridge between healthcare services and the people who need them. They’re trusted members of their communities who understand the unique challenges folks face. Think of them as health advocates, educators, and navigators all rolled into one.

Now, what about that “certification” thing? Basically, it’s a way of proving you’ve got the knowledge and skills to be a rockstar CHW. It shows you’re serious about this work and that you’ve met certain standards.

What Does CHW Certification Involve?

So, you’re intrigued by the idea of becoming a CHW? Awesome. Now, let’s talk about getting certified. The specifics can vary from state to state, but here’s the general gist:

• Training: First up, you’ll need some solid training. This usually involves a set number of hours covering topics like health education, communication skills, and community outreach. Think of it as learning the tools of the trade.
• Competency Exam: Once you’ve completed your training, you’ll likely need to pass an exam to show you’ve mastered the material. Don’t worry. It’s not about memorizing a bunch of medical jargon. It’s more about applying your knowledge to real-world situations.
• Background Check: Some states require a background check as part of the certification process. This is just to ensure the safety and well-being of the communities you’ll be serving.

Now, here’s where it gets interesting. Some organizations offer free online CHW certification programs. This means you can gain valuable skills and boost your career prospects without breaking the bank.

Why Get Certified in the First Place?

Okay, you know what a CHW is and what it takes to get certified. But you might be thinking, “Why bother with the whole certification thing anyway?” Great question. Here’s the lowdown:

• Boost your credibility: Think of certification as a stamp of approval. It tells employers and communities that you’ve got the skills and knowledge to do the job well.
• Increase your earning potential: Certified CHWs often have access to higher-paying job opportunities. Who doesn’t love a little extra padding in their wallet?
• Expand your career options: Certification can open doors to a wider range of roles in healthcare and community settings. You could work in hospitals, clinics, non-profits, or even start your own health-focused business!
• Make a bigger impact: With the right training and credentials, you’ll be better equipped to make a real difference in your community. That’s what it’s all about, right?
• Gain a competitive edge: In a growing field like community health, certification can help you stand out from the crowd. It shows you’re committed to professional development and lifelong learning.

So, if you’re serious about a career as a CHW, getting certified is a no-brainer. It’s an investment in yourself, your community, and your future.

15 Best Free Online CHW Certification Programs

Ready to jumpstart your CHW journey? Here’s the good news: you can find some fantastic free online programs that will equip you with the skills and knowledge you need to succeed. Check out these awesome options:

1. Community Health Worker Diabetes Education Program – American Diabetes Association®: This program, available in both English and Spanish, focuses on empowering CHWs to support individuals with diabetes. You’ll learn about diabetes prevention, management, and how to connect people with resources.
2. Care Coordination Systems CHW Core Competency Training – Care Coordination Systems: This nationally available program, offered virtually or in-person, provides comprehensive training on care coordination, a vital aspect of CHW work. They also offer training for CHW Supervisors and Care Transitions Intervention.
3. Morehouse School of Medicine – Online CHW Curriculum – Morehouse School of Medicine: This online curriculum from a renowned institution provides a solid foundation in community health work. You’ll learn about health promotion, disease prevention, and advocacy.
4. Futuro Health – Opioid Use Disorder Community Health Worker Training Online – Futuro Health: This program focuses specifically on equipping CHWs to address the opioid crisis. You’ll learn about harm reduction, treatment options, and how to support individuals and families affected by opioid use disorder.
5. Community Health Worker Online Training Program – New Mexico: This online program provides comprehensive training aligned with the New Mexico CHW Certification Board’s requirements. It covers topics like health education, community outreach, and advocacy.
6. National Community Health Worker Training Center Online – Texas: Housed within Texas A&M University’s School of Public Health, this program offers CHW and CHW Instructor certifications. They provide continuing education units, both in-person and online, and in English and Spanish.
7. West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine (WVSOM) Center for Rural and Community Health CHERP-CHW Training Program Online – WVSOM: This program focuses on training CHWs to serve rural communities. You’ll learn about the unique health challenges faced by rural populations and how to effectively address them.
8. Wisconsin Community Health Worker Network – Wisconsin CHW Network: This network offers online training and resources for CHWs in Wisconsin. You’ll find information on certification requirements, continuing education opportunities, and how to connect with other CHWs in your area.
9. Southeast Technical College Community Health Worker Certificate Program – Southeast Technical College: This online program from Southeast Technical College in South Dakota provides comprehensive training in community health work. You’ll learn about health promotion, disease prevention, and advocacy, with a focus on serving diverse communities.
10. Maryland Department of Health Community Health Worker Training Programs – Maryland Department of Health: The Maryland Department of Health offers a variety of CHW training programs at various locations throughout the state. These programs cover the core competencies required for CHW certification in Maryland and prepare you to work effectively in diverse communities.
11. ReInVentU, LLC – ReInVentU: This Florida-based organization offers a Florida Certified Community Health Worker provider program. Their training covers the core competencies required for CHW certification in Florida and prepares you to work in various healthcare settings.
12. HealthHIV – HealthHIV: This organization offers a CHW training and certification program focused on HIV prevention and care. You’ll learn about HIV transmission, prevention strategies, and how to support individuals living with HIV.
13. Simple Solutions Psychotherapy CHW Training Certification Program – Simple Solutions Psychotherapy: This program focuses on the mental health aspects of community health work. You’ll learn about mental health conditions, treatment options, and how to provide support to individuals experiencing mental health challenges.
14. Practice Transformation Institute CHW Program Providers – MDHHS Approved – Practice Transformation Institute: This Michigan-based organization offers a variety of CHW training programs approved by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services. Their programs cover the core competencies required for CHW certification in Michigan and prepare you to work in various healthcare settings.
15. Indian Health Service Online – South Dakota – Indian Health Service: This online program from the Indian Health Service provides training specifically for CHWs working with American Indian and Alaska Native communities. You’ll learn about the unique health challenges faced by these populations and culturally appropriate approaches to care.

These are just a few examples, and there might be other great programs available in your specific area. Do some digging and find the one that best fits your needs and interests.

Ready to Make a Difference? Your CHW Journey Starts Now!

We’ve explored the ins and outs of free online Community Health Worker certification. Now, it’s time to take action.

Remember these key takeaways as you embark on this exciting path:

• CHWs are vital bridges between communities and healthcare.
• Certification boosts your credibility and expands your career options.
• Free online programs make getting certified accessible to everyone.
• Choose a program that aligns with your interests and career goals.

And hey, if you’re in Illinois, don’t forget to check out the Illinois Community Health Workers Association (ILCHWA). We are a fantastic resource for CHWs, offering support, networking opportunities, and a chance to connect with fellow change-makers. Together, we can build healthier communities.