Key Points

• To become a Home Health Aide in Delaware, you must complete a 75-hour state-approved training program.
• You must pass a competency exam at hire and annually, and undergo a fingerprint-based background check.
• As of May 2024, the average annual salary for a Home Health Aide in Delaware is $33,480.
• Certification must be maintained with 12 hours of continuing education each year.

Step 1: Meet the Basic Requirements in Delaware

The first step to becoming an HHA in Delaware is meeting the foundational requirements. While a high school diploma or equivalent is typical, some agencies may have different educational prerequisites. A mandatory, fingerprint-based criminal background check managed by the Delaware Background Check Center is required for all applicants to ensure patient safety.

If you're ready to start your journey, Dreambound can help you find the right training program to meet these requirements.

Step 2: Complete a State-Approved HHA Training Program

In Delaware, you must complete a state-approved training program of at least 75 hours. This training must include a minimum of 16 hours of classroom instruction followed by at least 16 hours of supervised practical training. These programs cover essential skills such as personal care techniques, infection control, nutrition, and communication. Dreambound offers a comprehensive list of state-approved HHA classes, making it easy to find and compare programs near you to start your career.

Step 3: Pass the Competency Exam and Get Certified

After completing your training, you must pass a competency evaluation. This test includes both a written exam and a practical skills demonstration to assess your knowledge and abilities. Successful completion allows you to be listed on the Delaware Nurse Aide Registry, which is a legal requirement to work as an HHA in the state. It is important to note that this competency test must be passed not only at hire but also repeated annually to ensure your skills remain current.

Step 4: Maintain Your Certification with Continuing Education

Maintaining your HHA certification in Delaware requires ongoing professional development. State regulations mandate the completion of 12 hours of continuing education, also known as in-service training, each year. This ensures you stay updated on the latest care techniques and standards, which is a condition for both your employment and the licensure of your employing agency.

Step 5: Find a Job as a Home Health Aide

With your certification, you can find employment in various settings, including private homes, assisted living facilities, and hospices. The job outlook nationwide is exceptionally strong, with a projected 17% growth in employment for HHAs between 2024 and 2034.Recent state funding initiatives, including recruitment and retention bonuses for direct care workers, make the job market even more attractive for new and existing HHAs.

Understanding the Delaware HHA Work Environment

Working as an HHA in Delaware involves navigating specific state and federal policies. Recent changes include the mandatory use of Electronic Visit Verification (EVV) for Medicaid services, which requires visits to be logged in the HHAeXchange system. New national rules also mandate that at least 80% of Medicaid payments for home care services go toward worker compensation. Additionally, Delaware has clear regulations for supervision, requiring on-site visits from a registered nurse every 14 to 60 days, depending on the patient's care plan.

Career Paths and Opportunities after Becoming a Home Health Aide

A career as a Home Health Aide can be a stepping stone to numerous other roles within the healthcare industry. Many HHAs choose to advance their education to become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or a Registered Nurse (RN), which opens up more responsibilities and higher earning potential. Other potential career paths include becoming a Medical Assistant, Home Health Nurse, or even a Nursing Home Administrator with further education and experience.