States Working to Fill Gaps in Homecare Industry With New Training Programs

FREEHOLD, New Jersey—Home Helpers Home Care of Freehold is partnering with the Ocean County Vocational Technical School (OCVTS) on a new certified home health aide (CHHA) program designed for adults seeking to enter the growing health care field.  

This 82-hour CHHA training program includes 66 hours of in-class instruction and 16 hours of in-person clinical training to prepare students for careers in home health care. Students will learn the core responsibilities of a certified home health aide, including assisting patients with daily routines, managing chronic illness, post-operative care and supporting individuals with disabilities.

“The CHHA program equips students with the essential knowledge and practical skills required to support patients in their homes,” said Jeremy Dusza, principal of adult education for the OCVTS.  

According to a report published by the National Conference of State Legislatures, states across the board have worked to expand training in the health care field in the hopes it will fill significant gaps in the industry. The report said experts have expressed mounting concerns about the future of the health care workforce and its ability to meet increasing demands. 

The projected shortage in the United States health care workforce by 2026 is roughly 3.2 million, that number consisting of direct care professionals like medical assistants, home health aides and nursing assistants. An aging population and the increased prevalence of chronic illnesses and behavioral health conditions is creating more demand for health care professionals. Conversely, the COVID-19 pandemic negatively impacted the supply of health care workers as many left the profession due to burnout, stress, anxiety and depression. To address these challenges, states are pursuing several different strategies and programs to recruit and retain health care workers.

For example, the University of Nebraska Medical Center offers free tuition during its undergrad program that offers 10 varying health care pathways including occupational therapy, physical therapy and nursing. The ABC Training Program in New York City offers a home health aide program that can be completed in three weeks which includes a 76-hour classroom training program, one day of clinical training and an up-to-date physical exam. Upon successful completion of the training program, individuals are then eligible to take the competency evaluation required for certification as a home health aide.

“Our CHHA program is not just about learning skills—it’s about preparing compassionate individuals to make a real difference in the lives of others,” Dusza said. “We are proud to offer this pathway to employment and service in such a vital part of the health care system.”

Melissa Magabilin, nursing director for Home Helpers, will teach the course.

“I am excited to begin this collaboration between OCVTS and Home Helpers of Freehold,” Magabilin said. “We believe these new classes will be a catalyst for empowering individuals to pursue their passions and make a tangible impact in our community.”  

The changing health care landscape has created challenges in recruiting qualified health care professionals to care for elderly, veteran and at-risk populations, she said.

“Home Helpers believes in providing highly skilled CHHAs who have the compassion and motivation to assist our clients in their homes, keeping them safe and ensuring their well-being,” Magabilin said. “The CHHA classes will give us the opportunity to train the right candidates and give them the tools they need for success.”

Students will also be trained in compliance with all state and health department protocols to ensure the highest standard of care and safety for both patients and aides. In addition to personal care, certified home health aides may be asked to perform homemaking activities, depending on patient needs; they will be under the supervision of a registered professional nurse.

Enrollment is now open for classes that begin Monday, Sept. 8. No prior medical experience is required. Program graduates will be well-prepared for certification and immediate employment in the growing home health care industry.  

To learn more about career opportunities with Home Helpers of Freehold, visit home-helpers-monmouth-county.careerplug.com or call 908-975- 0400.