What training hours are required for caregivers in Alaska?

In Alaska, training requirements depend on the caregiver’s role and the specific program. Home Health Aides (HHAs) usually need 140 hours of initial training and 12 hours of training each year. Personal Care Services under Medicaid programs generally require about 40 hours of initial training. Instead of setting yearly hours, these programs focus on meeting competency and program-specific standards. Private-Pay caregivers are not required to complete state-mandated training hours. Instead, each agency decides its own training standards. Overall, Alaska focuses on role-specific training, competency, and program guidelines rather than a single universal training requirement across all caregiver roles.

What topics are included in Alaska caregiver training?

Caregiver training requirements in Alaska depend on the specific role and program, rather than a standardized statewide curriculum. Most training programs include: Agency orientation and role-specific skills training Safety practices and basic care procedures Client rights, communication, and documentation Task-based training aligned with the plan of care Certain Medicaid-funded services may require additional training, such as critical incident training, based on the caregiver’s role and program.

Alaska Caregiver Training Requirements

300+

Online Courses

95%

Completion Rate

85%

Higher Retention

185+

Hours of Training

State Regulations

Alaska's Caregiver Training
Requirements at a Glance

Alaska mandates specific training hours and competency evaluations for all in-home care workers.
Here's everything your agency needs to know.

Alaska Training Requirements

Home Health Aide

Home Health Aides assist with personal care, mobility, and routine health-related support under supervision.

Annual Training

12 Hours

Alaska Training Requirements

Private-Pay Caregiver

Private-pay caregivers provide personal support and companionship services to clients in home settings. Training hours are set at the agency's discretion, but Learn2Care recommends 8 hours to start and 8 hours each year to build strong core skills.

Initial Training

None

Annual Training

None

Alaska Training Requirements

Personal Care Services

Personal Care Services workers help clients with daily personal needs like bathing, grooming, and dressing to support comfort and independence at home. They complete 40 hours of training before starting, with annual training hours determined by each agency.

Initial Training

40 Hours

Annual Training

None

Alaska Training Requirements

Personal Care Services, Medication Self-Administration

Medication Self-Administration Training teaches caregivers how to help clients take their own medications safely, using careful and respectful support focused on each client’s needs.

Initial Training

Topics

Annual Training

None

Alaska Training Requirements

Chore Services

Chore Services Training shows caregivers how to help clients keep their homes clean and safe, using reliable and respectful support that encourages independence.

Initial Training

Topics

Regulatory Oversight

Licensing Authorities

Alaska Department of Health

Oversees statewide healthcare regulations, Medicaid programs, and home-based care services.

Alaska Division of Senior and Disabilities Services (SDS)

Administers aging services, waiver programs, and long-term personal care services.