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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) 


UPDATE: THW Rulemaking Process

​The THW Program held a series of meetings with the Rules Advisory Committee in May and June 2026 to update the Chapter 950 Division 60 Rules. The public comment period and a public hearing is TBA. 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.​​