Personal Health Navigator (PHN)

A Personal Health Navigator (PHN) is an individual who provides information, assistance, tools and support to enable a patient to make the best health care decisions.  A PHN is an individual who meets qualification criteria adopted by the authority under ORS 414.665 and who provides information, assistance, tools and support to enable a patient to make the best health care decisions in the patient's particular circumstances and in light of the patient's needs, lifestyle, combination of conditions and desired outcomes.

PHN Certification Requirements

There are three ways that individuals can become an OHA-certified Patient Health Navigator:

• Option 1: Complete an approved training program 
  

• Option 2:  Apply using the Reciprocity (see details below)

RECIPROCITY 

Individuals who hold an active PHN certification from the state of Washington or Idaho, and are in good standing with their certifying body, may be granted reciprocity or receive equivalent credit for previously completed training. Complete and submit reciprocity form to: THW.Program@oha.oregon.gov.

PHN Recertification Requirements 

Every three years, all PHNs must complete the required CEUs to renew their PHN certificate. 

• At least 20 hours of Continuing Education Units (CEUs) during every three-year renewal period 
• At least three of the 20 hours must be from suicide risk assessment, treatment, and management appropriate to the PHN scope of work. 

A list of Suicide Prevention Trainings (PDF) 

Additional Suicide Prevention Trainings/CEUs

Raices de Bienestar Suicide Prevention for the Latinx Community Training CEUs

Responding with Care Suicide Prevention Training

Application

• Apply for the Traditional Health Worker (THW) certification via the portal at https://healthworkforceregistry.oregon.gov/

• *Regarding recertification, for renewal purposes, we require applicants to apply within 60-90 days prior to their expiration date.

Once you are certified with the Oregon Health Authority, we will add you to our state registry. The registry is a reliable, trusted source for finding a traditional health worker in Oregon.