The DOH
(department of health) requires:

HHA / PCA certification

All HHAs (Home Health Aides) and PCAs (Personal Care Aides) must have a valid certificate. To get certified, please take a 2-4 week course at your school of choice.

Medical documents

Federal and state regulations require HHAs and PCAs to be in good health. As you may be working with immuno-compromised individuals, agencies will request a few important documents to confirm you are in good health, such as: a physical exam (signed by a doctor), drug test, rubella and rubeola tests, tuberculosis / PPD test and applicable vaccinations.

Legal documents

Employees must provide documentation to their employers to show their identity and authorization to legally work in the United State of America. The list of acceptable documents can be found here. Once you have your medical documents, proof of work authorization and your HHA or PCA certificate, you're ready to apply!

General requirements

Many agencies will request two reference letters. This can be provided by previous employers or individuals who can vouch for your competence.

Agencies will give you an English comprehension test to confirm your ability to speak the language. Keep in mind, being bi-lingual is a plus! Many agencies look for bi-lingual applicants to meet their client/patient needs.

When you will apply, agencies will ask you to complete a Criminal History Record Check form. This will query the state and federal website to see any pending records.

To complete your onboarding, you will also be asked to attend an orientation. This can last a few hours and will require completion of a number of forms as well skills assessment to ensure you're ready to take on a new case.

On-going requirements

1. Certificate: If you haven't worked as an HHA/PCA for the past 2 years, your certificate has likely expired and will need to be renewed.

‍2. Annual flu vaccines + medicals: You are required to provide documentation, signed by a medical professional, showing that you are in good health and in compliance with required vaccines. ‍

3. In-service: Aides must complete on-going training called in-services. HHAs are required to complete 12 hours of in-service annually. PCAs are required to complete 6 hours of in-service annually.