Overview of the profession:

Home Health and Personal Care Aides (HHPAs) represent a vital and growing occupation in the healthcare continuum. They are tasked with a variety of duties that enhance the quality of life and maintain dignity for their patients, including personal care assistance, monitoring health indicators, assisting with medication management, providing mobility support, ensuring a clean living environment, and, importantly, providing companionship. Employment requirements vary by employers; however, HHPAs generally must have completed high school or hold a GED and a valid driver's license. Some employers may require HHPAs to complete a 75-hour HHPA Training and Competency Program and pass an aide competency test before employment. HHPAs primarily serve patients in the comfort and familiarity of their homes instead of traditional hospital or facility settings. Due to their proximity to patients and unique insight into their daily lives, HHPAs are essential for promoting patient independence, comfort, and overall well-being in the home setting.