CNA Classes in Homer, Alaska

Homer CNA Training - Alaska

You can receive your CNA certification in as little as 3 to 8 weeks.

Admissions Advisor Tip: Don't limit your options. Contact multiple schools to to compare their different offers, like financial aid packages.

Becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant in Homer, Alaska

About Homer

Nestled on the picturesque shores of Kachemak Bay, Homer, Alaska, is known for its stunning natural beauty and vibrant local culture. Often referred to as the “Halibut Fishing Capital of the World,” Homer offers a unique blend of outdoor adventure and small-town charm. From the iconic Homer Spit to the breathtaking views of the Kenai Mountains, this town is a wonderful place to live and work. For more information, visit the City of Homer Official Website.

CNA Training Programs in Homer, Alaska

Finding the right Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) training program is the first step towards a rewarding career in healthcare. Here are some local options for CNA programs in and around Homer, Alaska:

1. Kenai Peninsula College (KPC) – Kachemak Bay Campus
   • Location: Homer, Alaska
   • Program Description: Kenai Peninsula College offers a comprehensive Nursing Assistant program designed to prepare students for the Alaska CNA certification exam. The program includes both classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience.
   • KPC Nursing Assistant Program
2. AVTEC – Alaska’s Institute of Technology
   • Location: Seward, Alaska (approximately 90 miles from Homer)
   • Program Description: AVTEC provides a Nursing Assistant program that covers essential skills and knowledge required for the CNA role. The curriculum includes both theoretical and practical training.
   • AVTEC Nursing Assistant Program
3. University of Alaska Anchorage (UAA) – Kenai Peninsula College
   • Location: Soldotna, Alaska (about 75 miles from Homer)
   • Program Description: UAA’s Kenai Peninsula College offers a Nursing Assistant program that prepares students for the state certification exam. The course includes classroom instruction and clinical practice.
   • UAA Nursing Assistant Program

CNA Employment Opportunities in Homer

After completing your CNA training, there are several healthcare facilities in Homer where you can seek employment:

1. South Peninsula Hospital
   • Location: Homer, Alaska
   • Description: South Peninsula Hospital is a full-service hospital offering a range of medical services, including emergency care, surgical services, and long-term care. They frequently have openings for Certified Nursing Assistants.
   • South Peninsula Hospital Employment Opportunities
2. Homer Medical Center
   • Location: Homer, Alaska
   • Description: Homer Medical Center provides comprehensive healthcare services to the local community. They offer opportunities for CNAs to work in various clinical settings.
   • Homer Medical Center
3. SVT Health & Wellness
   • Location: Homer, Alaska
   • Description: SVT Health & Wellness is a community health center offering medical, dental, and behavioral health services. They often seek CNAs to support their healthcare team.
   • SVT Health & Wellness

CNA Certification Requirements in Alaska

To become a Certified Nursing Assistant in Alaska, you must meet the following requirements:

1. Complete an Approved CNA Training Program: Enroll in and successfully complete a state-approved CNA training program.
2. Pass the Competency Exam: After completing the training program, you must pass the Alaska CNA competency exam, which includes both a written and a skills test.
3. Submit an Application: Apply for certification through the Alaska Board of Nursing. This includes submitting your exam results and a background check.
4. Maintain Certification: CNAs in Alaska must renew their certification every two years and complete continuing education requirements.

For more information, visit the Alaska Board of Nursing.

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as a Certified Nursing Assistant in Homer, Alaska, is a fulfilling and impactful decision. With several excellent CNA training programs available and a variety of employment opportunities, now is the perfect time to start your journey. Contact a local school today to learn more about their programs and take the first step towards a rewarding career in healthcare.

PCT · CNA · CMA – What’s the Difference?

This depends on where you live. Some PCT courses include EKG and phlebotomy training. Some Patient Care Technician programs also include HHA (Home Health Aid) certification. However, in some work environments the titles CNA and PCT are used interchangably. Some hospitals in Alaska may be hiring Nurse Care Techs (NCT), a position which you can apply for with your CNA license.

CMA can stand for Certified Medication Aide or Certified Medical Assistant, both which perform separate but overlapping duties in the workplace.

How Much Does CNA Training Cost in Homer?

Nursing assistant courses at vocational colleges and allied health schools usually range between $400 and $1200. When choosing a CNA school, learn about all the associated costs required at each institution. Some schools list their program cost as all expenses included. However other schools may also require you to purchase additional materials (such as books, scrubs and materials for your clinicals) which have separate fees from the tuition costs.

CNA Refresher Courses around Homer usually cost around $100-$200.

Need Tuition Assistance?

While not all schools offer financial aid for students enrolled in their CNA course, some training programs may offer assistance to help with the cost of the course or certification. Also, some CNA employers will even pay for your Nurse Assistant training or reimburse you after you successfully complete your CNA training.

Some employers in Homer will cover a percentage of your CNA tuition; others will pay tuition costs up to a specific dollar amount. Often, new CNAs are required to work a particular number of months at the employer that covered their school bills. Or you may just need to reimburse them for any of the tuition costs they paid on your behalf.

When Can I Start CNA Training in Homer?

Many schools that offer CNA training have new sessions beginning every 6 to 8 weeks. In many areas in Alaska, you can find CNA training starting in November 2024, December 2024, January 2025, or February 2025 available for registration now. Unlike nursing programs in Alaska, you can usually find a school starting a new session of their CNA course fairly quickly. However, some schools offer CNA classes in semester format. At these schools, you may need to wait up 3 or 4 months to start your course.

Becoming a Nurse Aide in Homer is a great way to quickly gain experience in the medical field. Also check out Alaska CNA Salary info.