In an area that struggles to access health care, a new program implemented by UC Merced Extension in partnership with Merced County Public Health aims to improve access to health care services in Central California.
Participants with various education levels can apply for a Community Health Worker Specialty Training Certificate, which helps them understand how to connect communities in need to the support and health services available in their counties.
According to the program coordinator, the entry-level training focuses on community-clinical collaboration, which is a program or activity that links clinical services with community programs or social services.
“The San Joaquin Valley is an often forgotten region. There are still inequities in access and utilization of health care. A program of this magnitude in an area with a health worker shortage is long overdue,” said Merced County Public Health Director Rebecca Nanyonjo.
According to Extension, more than 680 job openings are expected to open between 2020 and 2030. The average hourly wage for community health workers in the Central Valley is expected to be $21.93 and the average annual salary will be $45,614.
The program equips participants with the knowledge, skills, and approaches necessary to serve as effective community health workers. This comprehensive training serves as a pipeline for people who are prepared to work in the health care field, such as in health facilities or clinics, as independent health workers, wellness coaches, doulas, and more.
Program participants will combine theoretical learning, practical exercises and real-world application to prepare for the diverse responsibilities of a community health worker. Weekly 90-minute evening online courses are held.
“We’re doing it intentionally to meet where our learners are at,” said Michael Pierrick, director of strategic initiatives for UC Merced Extension.
Certification requirements include 40 hours of instruction and five hours of on-the-job training (paid or volunteer). A Spanish version of the program is expected to be released in 2025.
“There’s a real focus on equity and access in what we’re doing,” Pierrick said.
Access to a community health worker program in Merced is important: Currently, the closest program is offered at Cabrillo College near Santa Cruz.
“This isn’t just a program that benefits Merced. The entire San Joaquin Valley can see this as an opportunity and a resource for the local community,” Nanyonjo said.
Additional information about the Community Health Worker Certificate can be found on the program’s webpage.
Upcoming cohort start dates:
July 29th – October 27th, 2024
September 16th – December 15th, 2024
February 3, 2025 – May 4, 2025
