.01 Definitions.

A. In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated.

B. Terms Defined.

(1) “Accreditation” means the approval a community health worker certification training program receives when it has met all the requirements of this chapter.

(2) “Accredited community health worker certification training program” means a community health worker certification training program that has been accredited by the Maryland Department of Health.

(3) “Applicant” means an individual who applies to the Maryland Department of Health to obtain a community health worker certificate.

(4) “Certificate” means a certificate issued by the Department to authorize an individual who meets the requirements of this chapter to represent to the public as a certified community health worker in the State.

(5) “Certified community health worker (CCHW)” means an individual who has successfully met the requirements stated in this chapter.

(6) “Community health worker (CHW)” has the meaning set forth in Health-General Article, §13-3701, Annotated Code of Maryland.

(7) “Core competencies” means:

(a) Advocacy and community capacity building skills;

(b) Effective oral and written communication skills;

(c) Cultural competency;

(d) Understanding of ethics and confidentiality issues;

(e) Knowledge of local resources and system navigation;

(f) Care coordination support skills;

(g) Teaching skills to promote healthy behavior change;

(h) Outreach methods and strategies; and

(i) Understanding of public health concepts and health literacy.

(8) “Department” means the Maryland Department of Health.

(9) “Professional development activities” means knowledge and skill building opportunities related to the core competencies of community health workers or health principles that may include:

(a) Courses;

(b) Webinars;

(c) Conferences;

(d) Workshops;

(e) Trainings; or

(f) Lectures.

(10) “Secretary” means the Secretary of the Maryland Department of Health.