Individuals pursuing a career as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Washington can benefit from the Nursing Assistant Certified (NAC) Reimbursement Program, which is a federal mandate for Medicaid/Medicare-contracted nursing facilities to offer reimbursement for CNA training costs to eligible employees. This program covers various costs associated with CNA training, including tuition, textbooks, supplies, and testing fees. To qualify, the training must not have been paid for with public funding or scholarships, and the individual must work at the reimbursing facility within one year of completing the training. It’s important to note that the program reimburses facilities, not the students directly; thus, students should inquire about specific reimbursement programs at the nursing facilities in their area. For more information on this reimbursement program, students can refer to the resources provided by the Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS).

Several institutions provide free CNA training programs. Avamere offers free nurse aide training in Seattle, Shoreline,, Issaquah, Tacoma, Vancouver, Port Orchard, Bellingham, and Sequim, with further details on Avamere’s website. Lynden Health Education has free CNA classes available in Whatcom County, outlined on their website. Martha & Mary also provide tuition-free CNA training in Poulsbo, with more information accessible via Martha & Mary’s website. Adding to these, Advanced Health Care details their free CNA training opportunities on their website, and Prestige Care offers a comprehensive Nursing Assistant Training program in locations such as Wenatchee, with program information on Prestige Care’s website. These programs are designed for individuals looking to begin a healthcare career as a certified nursing assistant.