December 2, 2022
When enrolling in Services My Way, it can feel like there’s a lot to remember. To make your enrollment go smoothly, it’s important to get certain things figured out before your enrollment meeting. This includes getting up-to-date certifications for CPR and First Aid. These certifications are required by the Department of Health Care Finance (DHCF) and must be earned through in-person classes.
Not getting the certifications could prevent PDWs from getting enrolled. It could even affect pay.
6 Facts About CPR and First Aid Certifications in Services My Way
- All PDWs and paid emergency backup in Service My Way program must be certified
- These certifications are required by the Department of Health Care Finance (DHCF)
- The certifications show that you completed the required CPR and First Aid classes
- First Aid and CPR are two different classes; CPR does not count as a First Aid class
- You must take the in-person classes from an approved organization
- The CPR and First Aid certifications are good for two (2) years after you get them
I Have Up-to-Date Certifications
in CPR and First Aid
Please send a copy of your CPR and First Aid certifications to GT Independence as soon as possible.
Email: customerservice@gtsd.org
Fax: 1.888.972.3891
How to Get Certified in First Aid and CPR
To get certified, you must attend in-person classes. Online class certifications are not accepted. The CPR and First Aid classes must also be through an accredited provider. Check out these options to find classes near you.
FAQs on CPR and First Aid Certifications for Services My Way
Who needs to be certified?
All participant-directed workers and paid emergency workers serving people in the Services My Way program. Volunteer emergency workers do not need to be certified.
What type of training do I need to get?
You need to take in-person CPR and First Aid classes. CPR and First Aid are two separate classes. CPR does not count as First Aid. First Aid does not count as CPR. The certifications must be through a verified organization.
Where can I get certified?
Check out these verified organizations to find in-person classes near you.
Why am I hearing about this now?
During COVID-19, the Department of Health Care Finance (DHCF) did not require in-person classes. Now that the pandemic is currently slowing, DHCF is returning to pre-pandemic requirements. This means in-person classes are required. You must receive training before enrolling with your participation in Services My Way.
I can’t remember if I have CPR and First aid certifications on file. What do I do?
Have you worked with GT Independence before? The active status of your certifications should be listed on your GT Portal account. If you can’t remember, please send your certifications to us again.
How to Find Your CPR or First Aid Status on the GT Portal
- Sign in to the GT Portal
- Select My Account at the bottom of the left-hand menu
- Scroll down to Demographics
- If you filed a CPR or First Aid certificate with GT in the past, the status will be listed below your primary language
Where do I send my CPR and First Aid certifications?
Please send a copy of your certifications to GT Independence.
Email: customerservice@gtsd.org
Fax: 1.888.972.3891
Have a question not covered in the FAQ? Contact us.
We’re here to support you every step of the way.