Top and the worst states for HHA job openings
With an aging baby boomer population, less availability from family members to provide and assist with care, and more access to care with the health care reform, demand for home care services has grown rapidly and home health aides have become an extremely critical contributor to the whole spectrum of healthcare services.
This demand has fuelled a demand for trained and qualified home health aides (HHAs). However, this requirement of Home Health Aides varies across 50 states. Following shows the top and the worst performing states in terms of number of new job openings for HHAs
Career advancement for Home Health Aides
Home health aides have few avenues for advancement without additional education and training. These include:
- Open own business to gain control of their hours and wages
- Pursue undergraduate education in nursing to improve job prospects. . For example, becoming a licensed vocational nurse or registered nurse is possible by completing a certificate, diploma or associate degree in nursing program.
The home health aide job doesn't lead directly to advancement. It does, however, help create career opportunities by providing essential experience in the health care industry which is relevant as a prerequisite for entry into career courses. This career path may grow significantly in the future because demand for services is projected to increase dramatically in the next decade.
Related career options to Home Health Aides
Several related career options exist within the healthcare sector such as Personal Care Aide (PCA) or Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA)
Home Health Aides, Certified Nurse Assistants and Personal Care Aides provide entry level positions for entry into the medical industry. While no difference between these professions is apparent, it is important for the students to understand the difference between CNA and HHA and PCA, in order to meet their career goals:
Career paths for Home Health Aides
Home health aides have different advancement opportunities such as the ones outlined in the below diagram. Aspiration and perseverance are the key here just like in any human endeavour. The experience of the practicing home health aides (HHAs) suggest that they have made the right career choice and their journey to advancement has just started.
For more information on the related careers and the expected salary for each of these professions, visit the Home Health Aide Salary page
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