In a strategic partnership poised to redefine the landscape of CNA training, the Arizona Health Care Association (AHCA) has teamed up with Bryan University to launch innovative “micro-certificates.” This initiative targets career CNAs, providing them with specialized knowledge without requiring them to pursue advanced degrees, and signals a potential nationwide shift in workforce development within the nursing home industry.
The collaboration, facilitated by the Arizona State Board of Nursing, has resulted in the creation of three focused micro-courses: Behavioral Health, Infection Control, and Respiratory Care. These 8- to 12-hour modules are designed to be accessible via mobile devices, allowing CNAs to learn at their own pace.
“There are career CNAs that don’t want to go on to become a licensed practical nurse or a registered nurse. They love doing what they do,” Jeff Barrett, director of workforce and leadership development at AHCA, told McKnight’s Long-Term Care News. “So, how do we provide more education for them [and] additional understanding of care delivery?”
A key feature of these courses is the integration of interactive technology. For example, in the Behavioral Health module, CNAs record themselves responding to simulated scenarios, allowing Bryan University’s technology to analyze and provide feedback on their empathetic listening and person-centered care skills.
National Expansion on the Horizon
With Bryan University’s online platform, the program is primed for national expansion. “We have been working with other state affiliates to introduce them to this micro-credential world,” Barrett revealed. “We’ve talked with five additional associations across the country, and we’re getting them information. That’s the beauty of it — we can roll this out nationwide.”
This potential national rollout comes at a critical time. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, “Employment of nursing assistants is projected to grow 4% from 2022 to 2032, about as fast as the average for all occupations.” This growth underscores the need for continuous education and upskilling within the CNA workforce.
Barrett, a long-term care veteran, emphasizes the increasing complexity of care delivery. “I use the word ‘prepared’ instead of ‘trained.’ I’m really specific when I’m talking about how we prepare our direct workforce,” he noted. “It’s so much more than book learning. It’s totally preparing them to be the best behavioral care techs, respiratory care techs or infection control team members that we can have.”
The collaboration between AHCA and Bryan University represents a forward-thinking approach to addressing the evolving needs of the nursing home industry. By providing accessible and targeted education, these micro-certificates aim to empower CNAs and enhance the quality of care for residents nationwide.