LincolnHealth is accepting applications through Aug. 12 for the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) class, which will begin Tuesday, Sept. 10.

This free, 10-week course trains students to become CNAs. Once trained, CNAs work directly with patients and residents to provide assistance with activities of daily living and basic needs.

“This free CNA course is a great opportunity for people to begin careers in health care,” said LincolnHealth CNA instructor Jennifer McIntire, RN, who began her career as a CNA. “By becoming a CNA, you can open so many doors for yourself and make a difference for residents, patients and their family members.”

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

Accepted students can also apply for the Apprenticeship Program which allows students to be paid while they learn. Apprentice CNAs commit to working at long-term care facilities affiliated with LincolnHealth for 18 months following graduation. The Apprenticeship Program is available to select students based on available funding.

Although acceptance into the apprenticeship program does not guarantee employment after graduation, every effort is made to place graduates in jobs.

The class runs Tuesday through Thursday for 10 weeks. Classes are from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. when in the classroom and 6:45 a.m. to 3 p.m. during clinical training days.

Class size is limited, so interested applicants should return their completed applications as soon as possible.

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

For more information, please visit www.lincolnhealthme.org