CDI College gave me the opportunity to further my education and the chance to start a new career. The hands-on, practical training gives you a better feel for things in a way that a text book can’t give you. I’m now working at the place where I did my practicum. - Domingo V, CDI College Graduate.
The Community Health Care Worker program provides students with a comprehensive education that prepares them to work with a wide range of clients in a variety of health care settings. Students learn to provide support for people living with physical and mental disabilities who require assistance and care in group homes, long-term care settings and residential care. In addition, students learn to assist clients living with developmental disabilities, mental illness and behavioural issues.
Students gain a fundamental understanding of anatomy, physiology, medical terminology and development across the lifespan. They also learn about interpersonal communications, behavior management, chronic conditions, death and dying, and health and wellness. Students learn about home support, working within the school system and recreational program planning as well. Data collection is also covered.
In order to graduate, students must participate in three practicum placements in intermediate, extended and adolescent care where they will apply their newly acquired knowledge and skills and gain hands-on experience. They also participate in a preceptorship that will help them transition from student to Community Health Care Worker.
Graduates of the Community Health Care Worker program earn two diplomas and 10 certificates that are invaluable for a resume and are useful on the job. These include Community Health Care Worker and Health Care Assistant diplomas, and certificates in Mental Health Community Care, Recreational Program Planning, Basics of Medication, Standard First Aid, CPR, WHMIS and FoodSafe Level I. They also earn an Alzheimer’s Certificate, Long-term Geriatric Care Aide Certificate and a Teaching Assistant Certificate.
This program is 43 weeks in length.
Job Opportunities
- Long-Term Care Aide
- Home Health Care Worker
- Residential Care Attendant
- Health Care Assistant
- Nursing Aide
- Classroom Attendant for Special Needs Children
- Community Recreation Assistant
- Mental Health Worker
Community Health Care Worker
Program Courses
The program outline below is for British Columbia.
| Code | Course Name | Hours |
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- This course provides students with the opportunity to develop a theoretical framework for practice. Students will be introduced to the philosophical values and theoretical understandings that provide a foundation for competent practice as a HCA. The course focuses on concepts of caring and person centred care; basic human needs and human development; family, culture and diversity as they relate to health and healing. Students will also be introduced to a problem-solving model that will be critical to their practice.
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- This course focuses on the development of self-awareness, increased understanding of others and development of effective interpersonal communication skills that can be used in a variety of care giving contexts. Students will be encouraged to become more aware of the impact of their own communication choices and patterns. They will have opportunity to develop and use communication techniques that demonstrate personal awareness, respect and active listening skills.
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- This course introduces students to a holistic concept of health and the components of a health enhancing lifestyle. Students will be invited to reflect on their own experience of health, recognizing challenges and resources that can impact lifestyle choices. Students will be introduced to a model that can be applied in other courses to understand the multi-faceted aspects of health and healing.
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- This course provides an introduction to the role of the HCA within the British Columbia health care system. Students will be introduced to the healthcare team and the roles and functions of HCA within the team. Students will also have opportunities to develop self-reflective skills required for competent practice.
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- This course introduces students to the normal structure and function of the human body and normal bodily changes associated with aging. Students will explore common challenges to health and healing in relation to each body system. Students will also be encouraged to explore person-centred practice as it relates to the common challenges to health and, in particular, to end-of-life care.
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- This course builds on content from other courses to assist students to explore concepts and care giving approaches that will allow them to work effectively with individuals experiencing cognitive or mental challenges. Emphasis is on recognizing behaviours and identifying person-centered intervention strategies.
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- This practical course offers students the opportunity to acquire personal care and assistance skills within the parameters of the HCA role. The course is comprised of class and supervised laboratory experiences which assist the student to integrate theory from other courses to develop care-giver skills that maintain and promote the comfort, safety and independence of individuals in community and facility contexts. During this module, students will receive their First Aid, CPR, WHMIS and Food Safe training certification.
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- This practice course provides students with an opportunity to apply knowledge and skills from all other courses with individuals and families in a community setting. Opportunity will be provided for students to become more familiar with the role of the HCA within a Home Support Agency and gain abilities that will prepare graduates to assume the role of a Community Health Worker.
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- This supervised practice experience provides students with an opportunity to apply knowledge and skills from all other courses in the program with individuals in a multi-level or complex care setting. A portion of this clinical experience will be devoted to working with individuals experiencing cognitive challenges. Opportunity will be provided for students to gain expertise and confidence with the role of the HCA within a continuing care facility.
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- Students will have the opportunity to review and discuss the final practicum placement. Simulated practice may be given in panel interviews as well as practice scenarios for job interviews. Students will update their resumes and cover letters. Students will have use of a Job Search lab which has unlimited Internet access, a job search resource library and a fax machine and phone for contacting prospective employers. Students will obtain the necessary information required to register in the BC Care Aide & Community Health Worker registry.
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- During this module students will be presented with a simulated experience in which they plan and teach some basic life skills for those who may be living with disability, disorder, or limited resources. Students will be challenged to apply knowledge of group work while remaining focused on the goals. Students will be required to facilitate and search out needed supports and resources to aid the family and/or the individual to meet their basic needs. This module will introduce students to different roles played by individuals when working with a group.
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- This module will address human development from conception through adolescence. The psychology and physiology of growth and development are examined. Students will learn about fetal development and the effect of teratogens on an unborn child.
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- This module deals with physical, social, and emotional growth and development during infancy, childhood, and adolescence. Students will explore human needs in infancy, childhood, and adolescence. This module also introduces common disorders of school-age children. Students will focus on various aspects of learning disabilities and mental challenges. Further exploration will lead the student into the world of autism and Asperger’s Disorder with a brief look at fetal alcohol effects. Emphasis will be placed on facilitating children with these disorders in a structured setting or classroom while maintaining the least restrictive environment.
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- To aid in their understanding of developmental disabilities, this module starts with an introduction to genetics. Following the study of genetics, students will gain a better understanding of disorders such as Fragile X Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, Spina Bifida, and Down Syndrome. Knowledge of these disorders will aid those looking to pursue a career caring for individuals with developmental disorders.
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- This module will address the philosophy of behavior management, non-aversive behaviour management, and non-violent intervention. There is a focus on the issues surrounding mental health, taking an extensive look at personality disorders and Schizophrenia. This module will develop the knowledge and skills required to pursue a career as a mental health worker.
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- Facilitating recreational activities, using many different forms are discussed in this module. Students learn to create program plans for various age groups and facility settings, utilizing appropriate therapeutic modes and maintaining a focus on emotional and cognitive goals of clients with special needs. This module takes a holistic view of assisting in the fulfillment of client needs.
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- This 5 week, unsupervised learning experience will integrate the knowledge and skills acquired throughout this program. Students will work with children, adolescents, and/or young adults in non-clinical settings such as schools and community centers by providing physical and emotional management and support.
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- Students will have the opportunity to review and discuss the final practicum placement. Simulated practice may be given in panel interviews as well as practice scenarios for the job interview. Students will update their resumes and cover letters. Students will have use of a Job Search lab which has unlimited Internet access, a job search resource library and a fax machine and phone for contacting prospective employers.
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- The intent of a preceptorship is to transition from learner to graduate. During this time, the student will work closely with a preceptor who will guide them as a facilitator, teacher, and mentor. The preceptor will help the student gain further insights, awareness, and knowledge through the reality of the work setting. Program instructors will collaborate with the preceptor and learner to facilitate this experience.