Community Health Worker (CHW)

A Community Health Worker (CHW) is a frontline public health worker who is a trusted member of and/or has a close understanding of the community served.  This trusting relationship enables the worker to serve as a liaison/link/intermediary between health/social services and the community to facilitate access to services and improve the quality and cultural competence of service delivery. (APHA.org). 

"Community Health Worker" has the meaning given that term in ORS 414.025.

CHW Certification Requirements

There are two ways that individuals can become an OHA-certified Community Health Worker:

• Option 1: Complete an approved training program 
  

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

• CHWs are also required to complete THW Oral Health for Community Health Worker Training Program
  
  

RECIPROCITY 

The THW Program includes a reciprocity option for individuals who hold certifications as Community Health Workers in Alaska and Idaho only, and are in good standing with their certifying body. To apply for reciprocity, you will need to:

• Complete and submit the Reciprocity Form to: THW.Program@oha.oregon.gov
  

• Meet any additional criteria set by the OHA for reciprocity and equivalent credits. 

• Complete application

• Complete oral health training

• Complete background check
  

*For those who are from Washington, you will need to make sure your processing fees have been paid to the certifying body in Washington before you apply for reciprocity.

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.