Program Requirements

The Certification Commission reviews CHW training programs in the state of Arkansas for approval through ARCHWA. Individuals who complete an approved training program are eligible to apply for certification with two years of experience. If your organization is training CHWs in Arkansas or planning to start a CHW core competency training program, please reach out to ARCHWA for consultation and support: info@archwa.org

To apply to become an Approved Training program, programs must meet the following requirements:

  • Must be based in Arkansas

  • All eleven core competencies must be discussed in the curriculum

  • Must have at least 80 hours of didactic training

  • Must have an additional 40 hours of guided field practice

  • Organization should have previous experience conducting at least one training program for CHWs

  • The director and/or trainers of the training program must have previous experience running CHW

  • programs and/or serving as a CHW

  • $500 Application fee for training program approval

The Training Program application packet is available for download below in both word and pdf. You may submit your application by mail to PO Box 166713, Little Rock, AR 72206 or submit electronically to info@archwa.org.

Application - Word Doc
Application - PDF

  • 1. Certified CHWs receive standardized training and knowledge that assists them in providing better care and support that is both beneficial to individual clients and the overall community.

    2. CHWs seek to improve the social determinants of health for populations in need. For example, CHWs are tasked with addressing how people’s overall environment (i.e., where they live, work, eat, and their overall quality of life) impacts their health.

    3. CHWs help improve individual and population-based health outcomes and reduce medical costs/burden for individuals, communities, and the healthcare system.

  • Tri County Rural Health Network

    419 Cherry Street Helena, AR 72342

    http://tcrhn.org/

    870-338-8900

    tcrhn@tcrhn.org

    Highlights:

    -First Certification Commission approved CHW training program in the state

    -6-week virtual training program with synchronous learning activities

    -Students may enroll in the training from anywhere in Arkansas

    -80 hours of didactic training and 40 hours of supervised fieldwork training

  • 1. Approved training programs are the “gold standard” for CHW training programs in Arkansas.

    2. Approved training programs equip CHWs with the educational skills to work in a variety of settings including health services, faith–based organizations, substance abuse programs, nursing homes, mental health facilities, etc.

    3. Ensures that the CHW workforce is highly trained in the same core competencies.

    4. Increases job performance and employability of training program graduates.

    5. Approved training programs are featured on the ARCHWA website for prospective learners.

  • Certified CHWs must apply for recertification every two years. All certified CHWs must complete a minimum of ten hours of Professional Development Hours each year.

Questions About The Process?

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