Bill > HB1831

This bill establishes the Oklahoma Community Health Workers Act, which creates a voluntary certification process for community health workers (CHWs) in the state. The bill defines a community health worker as a frontline health worker who is a trusted member of the community, and outlines a certification process through the State Department of Health. To be eligible for certification, individuals must be legal U.S. residents, Oklahoma residents, at least 18 years old, and have a minimum of 1,000 practical hours of work experience with a recommendation from a supervising provider. Certified community health workers will be authorized to serve as liaisons between health and social services and communities, help identify gaps in community resources, and build individual and community capacity through outreach, education, coaching, and advocacy. The State Commissioner of Health is tasked with establishing standards for CHW training, examination requirements, and certification criteria, with a specific focus on potentially integrating CHWs into faith-based organizations to improve health access and literacy in underserved communities. The certification process will involve prescribed fees and will become effective on November 1, 2025, providing a structured pathway for recognizing and supporting the important role of community health workers in improving healthcare access and outcomes.

Health and Social Services

http://www.oklegislature.gov/BillInfo.aspx?Bill=hb1831&Session=2600