Training, Other Qualifications, and Advancement:
The federal government has enacted guidelines for home health aides whose employers receive reimbursement from Medicare. The federal law requires home health aides to pass a competency test covering 12 areas: communication skills; observation, reporting, and documentation of patient status and the care or services furnished; reading and recording vital signs; basic infection control procedures; basic elements of body function and changes; maintenance of a clean, safe, and healthy environment; recognition of and procedures for emergencies; the physical, emotional, and developmental characteristics of the patients served; personal hygiene and grooming; safe transfer techniques; normal range of motion and positioning; and basic nutrition. A home health aide may also take training before taking the competency test. The federal law requires at least 75 hours of classroom and practical training supervised by a registered nurse. Training and testing programs may be offered by the employing agency, but they must meet the standards of the Health Care Financing Administration. Training programs may vary depending upon state regulations. Thirteen states have specific laws on personal care services.

Sources of Additional Information:

General information about training and referrals to state and local agencies about opportunities for home health aides, a list of relevant publications, and information on national certification is available from:

Foundation for Hospice and Homecare/National Certification Program
519 C St. NE
Washington, DC 20002