What Is A Community Health Worker?

A community health worker (CHW) is a frontline public health professional who serves as a bridge between communities and healthcare services, providing education, outreach, and advocacy to improve community well-being and access to quality care.

VHWDA Community Health Worker Training Program

VHWDA is proud to offer a community health worker training program which includes:

  1. 12-week course with 17 asynchronous, online, interactive modules (80 hours of didactic lessons)
    1. This course fulfills the didactic requirements outlined by the Virginia Certification Board for Virginia CHW Certification.
  2. Access to our Area Health Education Centers (AHECs) for potential supervision, experiential learning
  3. Convenient technical assistance from a VHWDA team member

The 12-week course is available through Moodle, a global learning management system built for distance learning. Students will navigate through each didactic module, which consists of relevant readings, videos, discussion board assignments, case studies, and assessments to help them prepare for careers as community health workers, health advocacy or other similarly skilled careers. Students can also utilize the training as an introduction to healthcare.

CHW Curriculum Modules

Module 1 – Course Introduction and Orientation

Module 10 – Understanding Trauma

Module 2 – Intro to CHW

Module 11 – Vaccines & Immunizations

Module 3 – Health Equity and SDOH 

Module 12 – Outreach and Advocacy

Module 4 – Health Literacy

Module 13 – Care Coordination and Systems Navigation

Module 5 – Public Health Concepts

Module 14 – Documentation and Reporting

Module 6 – Wellness and Healthy Lifestyles

Module 15 – Legal, Ethical and Professional Conduct

Module 7 – Teaching to Promote Health Behavior Change

Module 16 – Stress Management and Self-Care

Module 8 – Chronic Disease Management

Module 17 – Professional Skills 

Module 9 – Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder

  

DEMO COURSE

Who Should Take This Course?

The CHW training course is designed for:

  • Aspiring community health workers, including those wishing to complete CHW certification through the Virginia Certification Board.
  • Students of all levels who want to gain practical knowledge and experience in healthcare.
  • Current clinicians, nurses, clinical social workers, and other health professionals who want to enhance their skills in community-based care and outreach.
  • Community advocates and those involved in community-based advocacy looking to understand current healthcare challenges better.
  • Anyone passionate about promoting health and wellness in their communities and aiming to make a positive impact on the health and well-being of others.

Technical & Other Skills

Please read the following skill requirements carefully before enrolling in the program. By enrolling, you acknowledge that you meet these requirements and agree to adhere to the program’s guidelines.

  1. Computer Access
    • Trainees must have consistent access to a computer or laptop. Mobile devices such as smartphones or tablets may not be sufficient for completing all coursework.
  2. Internet Access
    • A reliable internet connection is essential for accessing course materials, participating in discussions, and submitting assignments. High-speed internet is recommended to ensure smooth video streaming and interaction with online resources.
  3. Basic Computer Skills
    • Trainees must be proficient in basic computer operations, including:
      • Navigating the internet and using web browsers
      • Using email for communication and submitting assignments
      • Managing files and folders on a computer
      • Downloading and uploading documents
  4. Typing Skills
    • Good typing skills are required. Trainees will need to type assignments, participate in discussion forums, and communicate via email and other online platforms.
  5. Time Management
    • Since the program is asynchronous, trainees must be capable of managing their time effectively. This includes:
      • Setting and adhering to a study schedule
      • Meeting assignment deadlines
      • Balancing the program with other personal and professional responsibilities
  6. Self-Motivation and Discipline
    • Trainees must be self-motivated and disciplined to complete the program independently. Regular engagement with course materials and active participation in online activities are essential for success.
  7. Communication Skills
    • Effective written communication skills are important for interacting with instructors and peers in an online environment. Trainees should be able to articulate their thoughts clearly and professionally in written form.

Cost

The cost for the CHW training course is $750.

Discounts apply for group enrollment and can for individual enrollment upon request. The cost includes 12 weeks of unlimited access to all didactic course material, 1-on-1 technical assistance, and CHW certification preparation.

For more information please contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Ready to enroll?

*For individual enrollment

ENROLL HERE

Group Enrollment

*For groups of 5 or more, please use this link to enroll your participants

SUBMIT YOUR PAYMENT HERE

!-*Please review our sales policy prior to payment.-->

Need more information before enrolling?

Sign up for a 1-hour virtual info session with the CHW Program Manager, Henry Lewis:

SIGN UP HERE

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