Community Health Workers (CHWs), also known as Promotores de Salud, play a vital role in public health. These trusted community members bridge the gap between communities and essential health care and social services. In Texas, the Department of State Health Services (DSHS) oversees the Community Health Worker (CHW) program, ensuring qualified individuals are ready to serve their communities effectively. This program, established under Health and Safety Code Chapter 48, sets the standards for training and certifying CHWs in the state.
To become a certified Community Health Worker in Texas, candidates must demonstrate proficiency in eight core competencies. These competencies ensure that CHWs are well-equipped to handle the diverse challenges of community health work. Eligibility for the Community Health Care Worker Certificate Program in Texas hinges on meeting specific criteria, focusing on residency, age, and training or experience.
Key Certification Requirements for the Community Health Care Worker Certificate Program:
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Residency: Applicants must be residents of Texas. This ensures that certified CHWs are committed to serving Texas communities.
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Age: Candidates must be at least 16 years old. This makes the program accessible to young individuals passionate about community health.
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Training or Experience: Applicants must fulfill one of the following requirements:
- Training: Completion of a DSHS-certified 160-hour competency-based Community Health Worker training program. This comprehensive training ensures a strong foundation in the core competencies.
- Experience: Accumulation of at least 1000 hours of community health worker services within the last three years. This pathway recognizes the valuable experience gained through practical community work. Experience must be verified by supervisors listed in the application.
Applying for Your Initial Community Health Worker Certificate
The application process for the Community Health Care Worker Certificate Program is straightforward, with options for both online and mail-in submissions. The Texas DSHS provides clear instructions and resources to guide applicants through each step.
Application Options:
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Online Application: The most efficient method is the online application portal. Please note that the online application is currently available in English only. To prepare for the online application, it is recommended to:
- Download the application instructions relevant to your qualification pathway:
- For applicants who completed a CHW certification training course: CHW Certification Training Course Application Instructions
- For applicants applying based on CHW experience: CHW Experience Based Application Instructions
- Ensure all required attachments (photo, training certificate if applicable, and experience verification form if applicable) are saved in PDF format.
- Access the Online Application Portal to begin your application.
- Download the application instructions relevant to your qualification pathway:
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Mail-in Application: While the online application is encouraged for faster processing, a mail-in option is also available. You can download and print the application form to submit via mail.
Required Documents for Application Submission to DSHS:
Whether applying online or by mail, all applicants must submit the following documents to the Texas Department of State Health Services:
- Signed and Dated Application: Ensure all sections of the application are completed accurately. A typed or handwritten signature is acceptable for mail-in applications. Online applicants will sign electronically.
- Color Photo: Submit a color photo that meets passport photo standards. Refer to the specific Photo Requirements for detailed guidelines on acceptable photos.
- Training Certificate (if applicable): Applicants applying based on completing a DSHS-certified 160-hour training program must include a copy of their training certificate.
- Employment/Volunteer History Verification Form (if applicable): Applicants applying based on experience must submit a completed Employment/Volunteer History Verification Form to verify their accumulated hours.
Locating Your CHW Certification Number and Expiration Date
Once you are certified, you may need to access your CHW certification number and expiration date for various purposes. The DSHS Online Licensing Services website provides a simple way to retrieve this information.
Steps to Find Your Certification Details:
- Navigate to the DSHS Online Licensing Services website.
- Do not create an account. The license search function is accessible without logging in.
- Locate the “license search” section, typically found under “Check License Status” or “Search for a License (CHW certification number)”.
- Perform a search using your name or other identifying information to find your Community Health Worker certification details, including your certification number and expiration date.
Earning your Community Health Care Worker Certificate Program in Texas is a significant step towards making a positive impact in your community’s health and well-being. By understanding the requirements and following the application process outlined by the Texas DSHS, you can embark on a rewarding career as a certified Community Health Worker.
