In Florida, Home Health Aides (HHAs) and Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) serve important roles in the healthcare system, especially when it comes to providing care for individuals who need assistance with daily living. However, there are key differences in training, certification, work settings, and pay between the two.
Home Health Aides (HHA) in Florida
HHAs in Florida are regulated by the Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA). The state does not issue a license or maintain a central registry for HHAs. Instead, certification is obtained by completing training through an approved program.
Training requirements vary:
- A minimum of 40 hours of training is required for general private duty work.
- 75 hours of training (including classroom and hands-on practice) is required for those working with agencies that bill Medicare or Medicaid.
The scope of an HHA’s work typically includes:
- Assisting with personal care (bathing, grooming, etc.)
- Preparing meals
- Performing light housekeeping
- Running errands
- Providing companionship
This role is ideal for individuals who are comfortable working one-on-one with clients in a home environment and are willing to complete the required training hours.
In general, HHAs tend to earn less than CNAs, even when working in similar home healthcare settings.
Certified Nursing Assistants (CNA) in Florida
CNA certification in Florida is overseen by the Florida Board of Nursing. To become certified, candidates must:
- Pass a Level II criminal background check
- Successfully complete the Florida CNA state exam, administered by Prometric
Florida allows candidates to challenge the CNA exam, meaning formal training is not mandatory. This option can save time and money, especially for those who already have some healthcare experience.
The certification exam includes both:
- A written test
- A skills assessment
Once certified, CNAs are qualified to work in a wide variety of healthcare settings, such as:
- Hospitals
- Nursing homes
- Rehabilitation centers
- Hospice care
- Home care
- Travel CNA assignments
Transitioning from HHA to CNA
If you are currently working as a Home Health Aide and want to advance your career, becoming a CNA can open the door to more job opportunities and higher earning potential. In Florida, you may challenge the state CNA exam without completing a state-approved training program.
To improve your chances of success, you can enroll in a CNA prep course. Programs like the one offered by CNA Kwik Track are designed to help you prepare effectively for both the written and skills portions of the exam. These courses are affordable and offer a streamlined path to certification.