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Traditional Health Workers (THWs)

The term "Traditional Health Worker" refers to the six different worker-types:
  • Community Health Worker (CHW)
  • Peer Support Specialist (PSS)
  • Peer Wellness Specialist (PWS)
  • Personal Health Navigator (PHN)
  • Birth Doula
  • Tribal Traditional Health Worker (TTHW)

THW Rules Advisory Committee (RAC) Meeting​


The THW Program is updating the THW Program Rules Chapter 950 Division 60 . Three RAC meetings were held to update the rules in May 2026 and one more session is planned for late June (date and time not scheduled yet). This session will be streamed live on YouTube so please check our E&I Rulemaking webpage for connection information and details. The public comment period will open on July 1st.  A dedicated email address will be shared so that the public can submit comments. A public hearing is being scheduled and information on the hearing will be announced soon. Please check back for updates.


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. ​

Need additional support?

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.​​