Health care assistants (HCAs) are non-health professionals or support staff who work collaboratively within a healthcare team to meet the needs of the people they see. Health care assistants are not regulated and must work under the direction and delegation of a registered health professional.
The health care assistant role can be wide ranging and complex. They often work with people in the community and with people in residential care. This may involve assisting people with personal cares, such as:
- washing and dressing
- assistance with walking
- supporting somebody's comfort and wellbeing
- preparation of meals
- housework.
It may also involve assisting other healthcare providers. Care should be provided in a culturally appropriate way.
Image credit: Healthify He Puna Waiora
Common and advanced roles for health care assistants
Common roles for health care assistants include:
- personal care support
- meal preparation
- housework
- taking people shopping or to appointments
- monitoring vital signs
- acting as a chaperone
- patient recalls
- providing culturally appropriate care and support
- Cold Chain management (keeping vaccines at the right temperature)
- stock and supplies management
- documentation and liaison with other healthcare providers.
Advanced roles for health care assistants include:
- working as a health coach
- providing nutrition and basic education and support
- providing behaviour change support
- care coordination and supporting people to follow through with their care plan
- quality improvement tasks
- blood test collection
- health promotion activities.
