Community Health Worker

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Community Health Workers

Treasure Valley Community College (TVCC) is proud to offer a Community Health Worker (CHW) certificate; anticipated start in Fall 2026. This is an 11-week (1-term) program. Students who successfully pass this course receive a certificate of completion, and then register with the State of Oregon. CHWs are employed in hospitals, clinics, and community-based organizations to support individuals handling chronic diseases and other health concerns. They serve as liaisons between community members and healthcare systems, seeking to reduce health disparities and improve access to care. As frontline professionals, they provide education, advocacy, care coordination, and address social determinants of health to promote wellness in underserved communities. CHWs typically reside in the community they serve; they have the unique ability to bring information where it is needed most. 

Key roles and responsibilities of CHWs include:

  • Bridging Care: Serving as a link between residents and health/social services
  • Health Education & Counseling: Providing culturally appropriate guidance on disease prevention, nutrition, and healthy behaviors
  • Case Management: Assisting with care coordination, appointment scheduling, and navigating insurance.
  • Advocacy & Support: Advocating for individual needs (e.g., housing, food security) and providing social support
  • Outreach & Screening: Conducting home visits, providing basic health screenings, and identifying community needs. These outreach and screening activities are critical components in ensuring early detection of health issues and addressing gaps in community health services.