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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)

UPDATE: THW Rulemaking Process​

The public comment period is now open for the proposed changes for the Chapter 950 Division 60 Rules. The deadline to provide comment is August 28, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. Please email comments to natalyn.begay@oha.oregon.gov. If you prefer to provide comments during a public hearing, it is scheduled for Thursday, August 27, 2026 from 10:00 a.m. to noon. Click here to register. Please see the Equity and Inclusion Rulemaking page for full details. https://www.oregon.gov/oha/EI/Pages/Rulemaking.aspx


Doula Listening Sessions​

The Oral Rural Practicioners Research Network (ORPRN) and OHA will host an information session presenting a draft of the Doula 2026 Biennial Report on the Status of Doulas. This session will include the review of the report followed by a listening session where the public will have an opportunity to share experiences and comment on the report. The session will be held on Aug 27, 2026 from 2:00 PM to 4:00PM. Click the zoom link to connect: https://www.zoomgov.com/j/1654016529?pwd=DkLtmIBVKZ3NrsM9iLgUb5t2bLxo9b.1

If you have any questions, please email thw.program@oha.oregon.gov

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.​​