Bill > HB2615

This bill creates the Oklahoma Community Health Worker Act, which establishes a voluntary certification process for community health workers (CHWs) through the State Department of Health. The bill defines a community health worker as a frontline public health worker who is a trusted member of the community, and a certified community health worker as one who has received a certificate from the State Department of Health. Certified CHWs will be able to serve as liaisons between health and social services and the community, help identify gaps in community health resources, and build individual and community capacity through activities like outreach, education, coaching, mentoring, and advocacy. The State Commissioner of Health is required to develop rules for approving CHW training curricula, establishing examination requirements, defining minimum qualifications for certification, and setting criteria for granting or revoking certificates. The bill also allows the Commissioner to create reciprocity agreements with entities like Indian Health Service and Tribal Health Centers, and to prescribe fees for examinations, initial certification, and certification renewal. The act is set to become effective on November 1, 2025, providing a comprehensive framework for recognizing and supporting the important role of community health workers in improving public health services.

Health and Social Services

http://www.oklegislature.gov/BillInfo.aspx?Bill=hb2615&Session=2600