About Traditional Health Workers

What is a Traditional Health Worker?

Traditional Health Workers (THWs) are trusted individuals from their local communities who may also share socioeconomic ties and lived life experiences with health plan members.

THWs have historically provided person and community‐centered care by:
Bridging communities and the health systems that serve them
Increasing the appropriate use of care by connecting people with health systems
Advocating for health plan members
Supporting adherence to care and treatment
Empowering individuals to be agents in improving their own health

For Oregon rules on Traditional Health workers, read rules here

The term "Traditional Health Worker" refers to the six different worker-types.

Click on the links below to learn more about each Traditional Health Worker type and specific details regarding certification for each one:

THW Quick Links

About Traditional Health Workers (THW's)

OHA Approved THW Training Programs

How to Become a THW

THW Oral Health Requirements

How to Renew Your THW Certification

THW Continuing Education

THW Registry/Portal

THW Resources

THW Commission

Information for Health Systems, Providers, and THWs

Become an Oregon Health Authority Approved THW Training Program

THW Legislation and Rules

THW Complaint Form

CCO Traditional Health Worker Deliverables

Suicide Prevention Training