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Oregon Health Authority

THW Recertification Process

On this page you will find information on how to recertify an active or expired Traditional Health Worker Certification.

 
Important reminders:
  • All re-certifications are good for three years from the issue date, then you must renew.
  • Because of the time that it takes to process recertification applications, individuals are strongly advised to submit renewal applications at least 60 days before their current certification expires. We cannot extend the deadline of your certification per Oregon Administrative Rules (OARs).
  • All THW's shall complete at least 20 hours of Authority-approved continuing education during every three-year renewal period, with exception of family support specialists and youth support specialists, whereas the renewal requirement is least 40 hours of Authority-approved continuing education.
     

Step 1:

Gather Required Documents

Ensure that you have completed the continuing education requirements for each worker type:

 Complete 1.5 hours of Oral Health Training

 Complete 3 hours of Suicide Prevention Training (as part of your total CEU required hours)

If your certification has lapsed more than 6 months, you will be required to take a competency skills test in addition to providing proof of completion of the number of CEUs required for worker type. Below are links to access the Competency Tests for each worker type:

Step 2:

Submitting Your Application

  • You are required to apply for recertification in the Health Workforce Registry-Applicant Portal: https://healthworkforceregistry.oregon.gov/
  • Login to your account in the Health Workforce Registry-Applicant Portal.
  • If you have not set up an account yet, enter your original email address on the log in page and click “forgot your password." A code will be sent to you to enter a password. Log in again after you have set up a password. After confirming your account is active you can then update any information.
  • Select “Renew Traditional Health Worker Certification" and click on the certification you wish to renew.

Step 3:
Complete Background Check

 

  • The THW Program will review your application for completeness. If your application is complete, we will submit your information to the Background Check Unit (BCU) to start your background check. Completing the background check is a required step for all applications, even if you have had one in the past.
  • You will be sent an email from the BCU with a link to provide your consent and disclosure (also check your spam/junk folder). You have 7 days to complete this step, or your application will be closed. If your background check closes, please email THW Program at thw.program@odhsoha.oregon.gov to request a resubmission. We can resubmit your background check one time, as a courtesy. Please remember that it is your responsibility to keep an eye on your email folders and respond promptly. If you need additional support, please contact us.
  • Occasionally, the BCU will require fingerprints or request more information regarding the details in your background. The THW Program will email you a fingerprint letter with thorough instructions on how to get your fingerprints taken. If more information is requested, the BCU will mail a letter with instructions. Your diligence in monitoring emails and following the process is greatly appreciated.
  • This process will take around 4 weeks to complete.
  • More information regarding the criminal background check:

Criminal Background Check Rules
Background Check Weighing Test

Step 4:

Recertification completion

The BCU will notify you and the THW Program once your background check is completed. If approved, the THW Program will continue to process your application and send a determination letter with new expiration dates and update the Registry (you can always change your preferences via the portal at https://healthworkforceregistry.oregon.gov/.)


THW Quick Links