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Traditional Health Workers (THWs)

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.

The purpose of the Traditional Health Worker (THW) Program is to help THWs in Oregon become trained and certified to meet current standards, diversify the health care workforce, provide high-quality and culturally competent care to our increasingly diverse populations and ultimately promote health equity. 

THW's who are certified are only able to perform THW services in Oregon. 

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 RAC Recruitment

The THW Program is revising the Oregon Administration Rules (OARs) Chapter 950 Division 60 and is recruiting a diverse field of Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) from rural and urban areas to serve on the Rules Advisory Committee (RAC). 

Click Here to submit your application to be on the RAC. The deadline to apply is on April 3rd, 2026. Please note that a public comment period will begin after the draft rules are completed. The RAC will adress the following topics:

  • Definitions
  • THW certification requirements and process
  • THW curriculum requirements, process, and standards
  • Complaints process

Reciprocity on Pause

  • Reciprocity for Birth Doulas and Peer Support Specialists from Washington is currently on pause, as of 2/11/2026. There is not an expected reinstatement date yet.

Legacy Clause Expired

  • Due to the expiration of EID 1-2025 CHAPTER 950 under OAR 950-060-0060, until further notice, we are unable to process applications using the Legacy Clause. This pathway to certification will be re-considered through our rulemaking process. ​
THW Drop-in Office Hours: Every Tuesday from 2:00pm to 3:00pm at 800 NE Oregon St. Room 1C. Portland, OR 97232. Please email thw.program@odhsoha.oregon.gov or leave a message on our voicemail line at 971-673-3353 if you have any questions or want to schedule a virtual help session.

The April THW Commission meeting will be held in-person in Springfield, OR at 400 International Way, Suite 150, Springfield, OR 97408 from 1pm to 4pm on Monday, April 27th, 2026. We are collecting information from those that plan to attend. Please click here​ to fill out a quick sign-up form. Please not that there is still a virtual option. Please fill out, even if you plan on attending virtually.