What is the difference between a CNA and certified home health aide (CHHA)?
• CNA’s work primarily in licensed long-term or intermediate health care facilities such as hospitals, skilled nursing facilities and homecare agencies. Homecare agency hiring policies vary from agency to agency. CNA’s are not permitted to work for licensed home health agencies; that type of agency requires CHHA’s. However, most agencies will use a CNA for non-licensed cases. • CHHA’s work in the home setting and are generally employed by a licensed home health agencies. A CHHA cannot work in a hospital or skilled nursing facility unless they have a CNA certificate. CHHA’s provide and record the same personal care and comfort measures as a CNA with a few additions: 1) meal planning, food purchasing, preparation, serving, sanitation, and storage, 2) home safety and appropriate home emergency intervention. Neither CNA’s nor CHHA’s may perform any nursing functions that fall under the domain of a licensed health care professional. Examples include: • Performing invasive procedures • Passi
