The state of Maine has adjusted its training for certified nursing assistants for the first time in several years, allowing those interested in being certified to move through the program much quicker.

“Many of the items removed from the curriculum are for very specialized areas that will be a part of specific job training,” said Jennifer McIntire, R.N., longtime instructor for LincolnHealth’s free CNA training program. “What they removed makes sense and hopefully more students will apply for upcoming classes because of the shorter time commitment.”

LincolnHealth offers free CNA classes. The next class will start Tuesday, Jan. 11. Applications for this session are due by Friday, Dec. 10. Once trained, CNAs work directly with patients and residents to provide assistance with activities of daily living and basic needs.

Accepted students can apply for the Apprenticeship Program which allows students to be paid while they learn if they make a one-year commitment to provide care at one of LincolnHealth’s nursing care or skilled rehabilitation facilities after graduation. Apprentice CNAs are considered LincolnHealth employees and are eligible for benefits, including health insurance.

“CNAs make a heartfelt difference every day for residents and patients, and they are in high demand,” said McIntire. “Wages have recently been increased for this important job and there are many opportunities available for graduates.”

The classes run Tuesday through Thursday. Classroom sessions are from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., and clinical training days run from 6:45 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. The course runs for seven weeks, compared to 10 weeks previously.

Many of the program’s graduates are currently working at LincolnHealth, providing care at the hospital or in assisted living, long-term care, skilled rehabilitation or memory care facilities. Some graduates have continued on to become registered nurses, medical assistants, radiologic technologists, or pursued other health care specialties.

Candidates are accepted into the CNA program after a successful interview, health screening and background check. A high school diploma or GED is also required.

While every effort is made to place all graduates in jobs, participating in the training program does not guarantee employment after graduation.

Class size is limited, so completed applications should be returned as soon as possible.

To request an application, please call the LincolnHealth Education Department at 207-563-4540 or email cna@lchcare.org