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How to Become a Home Health Aide in Maryland (2024)

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Home Health Aides (HHAs) play a crucial role in delivering care to individuals needing assistance in their own homes. If you're thinking about becoming a Home Health Aide in Maryland, it's important to understand the value of home health aide training, secure your home health aide certification, and explore the available home health aide jobs. Here’s what you need to know:

Key Points

  • Home Health Aides assist individuals who need help with daily activities and basic medical care, often working with elderly or chronically ill patients in their homes.
  • To become a Home Health Aide in Maryland, you must complete a state-approved HHA program (75-100 hours), pass a competency evaluation, pass a criminal background check, and hold certifications in CPR and First Aid.
  • Home Health Aide training in Maryland costs $600-$1,500, with many agencies offering free training for employment commitment.
  • In Maryland, the average home health aide salary is $35,140 ($16.89 per hour), with experienced professionals earning up to $42,000+.

What are the requirements to be a Home Health Aide in Maryland?

To become a Home Health Aide in Maryland, you need a high school diploma or GED and must complete a state-approved training program. Additionally, you must pass a criminal background check, have a negative tuberculosis (TB) test result, and hold a valid certification in CPR and First Aid.

How long does it take to become a Home Health Aide in Maryland?

Becoming a Home Health Aide in Maryland typically takes between 75 and 100 hours of training, which includes both classroom and hands-on instruction. After completing the training, you'll need to pass a competency evaluation before applying for certification.

How much does a Home Health Aide make in Maryland?

In Maryland, a Home Health Aide earns an average salary of $35,140 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) 2023 data.

What is the difference between a caregiver and a home health aide?

Caregivers give non-medical assistance with daily activities like meal preparation, housekeeping, and personal care, requiring minimal formal training. Home Health Aides (HHAs) have state-approved training (75-100 hours) and can perform basic medical tasks like monitoring vital signs, assisting with prescribed exercises, and wound care under nurse supervision.

Are HHA and CNA the same thing?

No, HHAs and CNAs are different. CNAs have more extensive training (120-150 hours), must pass a state exam, and typically work in healthcare facilities like hospitals and nursing homes. HHAs complete shorter training (75-100 hours), focus on in-home care, and handle basic medical tasks while promoting independence in the client's home environment.

Final Thoughts

Becoming a Home Health Aide can be a fulfilling and rewarding career choice for those who have a passion for helping others. By following the steps to obtain your certification and taking the time to search for job opportunities, you can start your career as a Home Health Aide. From there, you can explore different career paths and opportunities within the healthcare industry. Whether you choose to continue providing direct care to patients or pursue advanced certifications and management positions, there are many options to consider. Remember to stay current with your certification requirements and continue to develop your skills and knowledge in order to excel in your career as a Home Health Aide.

Exploring diverse professional options? Dreambound has comprehensive guides to assist you in making well-informed decisions. Take a look at these resources:

Athena Kan
Written by
Athena Kan

Athena is Co-founder and CEO of Dreambound.

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