Whether you're hiring help for a loved one or thinking about a caregiving career, the alphabet soup of job titles can be confusing. Here's a plain-language comparison of three common roles.
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
Training: Completes a state-approved nurse aide training program and passes a state competency exam, then is listed on the state's nurse aide registry. Federal rules require at least 75 hours of training, and some states require more.
Where they work: Nursing homes, hospitals, rehab centers, assisted living, and home care.
Typical duties: Personal care, taking vital signs, repositioning, helping with mobility, and reporting changes to nurses.
Home Health Aide (HHA)
Training: Completes home health aide training and a competency evaluation. For aides working for Medicare-certified home health agencies, federal rules require at least 75 hours of training, including supervised practical training.
Where they work: Mostly in clients' homes, through home health and home care agencies.
Typical duties: Bathing, dressing, toileting, mobility, meals, and medication reminders, following a care plan.
Personal Care Assistant or Aide (PCA)
Training: It varies. Many PCA roles don't require a certification, and training is often provided on the job.
Where they work: In clients' homes and in the community.
Typical duties: Help with daily living, such as personal care, meals, housekeeping, errands, and companionship.
Note for Massachusetts: "PCA" also refers to the MassHealth Personal Care Attendant program, where a MassHealth member hires and directs their own attendant.
Which is right for your loved one?
For most non-medical needs, the right match depends less on the title and more on experience, reliability, and personality. When you call us, we'll talk through your loved one's needs and match the right level of caregiver.
Thinking about a caregiving career?
All three roles are rewarding ways to start in healthcare, and many people move from PCA to HHA to CNA and then into nursing. Ardno is hiring. See our openings for PCA jobs, home health aide jobs, and CNA jobs in Lowell, MA.