Hospitals are one of the top places that CNAs either start their educational journey, or in many cases the first places they work. If you want to break into the healthcare industry in Colorado Springs, getting training at a hospital can be a great way to start. That said, how do you go about finding training, or even free training to become a CNA?
How to Find Free CNA Programs at Hospitals in Colorado Springs
Finding free CNA training at a hospital in Colorado Springs requires a focused approach, as opportunities can vary. Here are some key strategies to help you locate free CNA training in the area:
1. Research Local Hospitals
Start by researching hospitals in Colorado Springs that may offer CNA programs or be involved in healthcare workforce development. Major hospitals like UCHealth Memorial Hospital and Penrose-St. Francis Health Services often provide healthcare training programs or work in partnership with local schools.
2. Hospital Job Postings
Many hospitals offer free CNA training programs in exchange for a work commitment. Check the careers or job postings sections of hospital websites for CNA training positions. Often, these programs pay you while you train and require you to work for the hospital for a set period after certification.
This handy map and table can help you find local hospitals:
| Name | Address | City | Phone |
| UCHealth Memorial Hospital Central | 1400 E Boulder St | Colorado Springs | (719) 365-5000 |
| UCHealth Memorial Hospital North | 4050 Briargate Pkwy | Colorado Springs | (719) 364-5000 |
| UCHealth Grandview Hospital | 5623 Pulpit Peak Vw | Colorado Springs | (719) 365-3300 |
| CommonSpirit St. Francis Hospital | 6001 E Woodmen Rd | Colorado Springs | (719) 571-5000 |
| CommonSpirit Penrose Hospital | 2222 N Nevada Ave | Colorado Springs | (719) 776-5000 |
| St. Francis Hospital – Interquest | 10860 New Allegiance Dr | Colorado Springs | (719) 757-7000 |
| Children’s Hospital Colorado, Colorado Springs | 4090 Briargate Pkwy | Colorado Springs | (719) 305-1234 |
| Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Colorado Springs | 325 S Parkside Dr | Colorado Springs | (719) 630-8000 |
| UCHealth Interquest Medical Center | 1370 Interquest Pkwy Suite 110 | Colorado Springs | (844) 723-2778 |
| Peak View Behavioral Health | 7353 Sisters Grove | Colorado Springs | (719) 316-5526 |
| UCHealth Pikes Peak Regional Hospital | 16420 US-24 | Woodland Park | (719) 374-6060 |
| Cedar Springs Hospital | 2135 Southgate Rd | Colorado Springs | (719) 633-4114 |
3. Inquire About Workforce Development Programs
Contact local hospitals directly to ask about their workforce development initiatives. Some hospitals partner with organizations like Pikes Peak Workforce Center to provide free CNA training for individuals seeking a healthcare career.
4. Check for Hospital Partnerships with CNA Schools
Look for CNA schools that have partnerships with local hospitals. These schools may offer free or low-cost training if you agree to work for a partnering hospital after completing the program. For example, institutions like Beo Training Center or Excel Medical Training Center in Colorado Springs might have hospital-affiliated programs.
5. Financial Assistance Programs
Hospitals may have financial assistance programs that cover the cost of CNA training for individuals in need. Contact hospital HR departments to ask about scholarships, grants, or reimbursement for CNA certification fees.
6. Community Programs
Some hospitals work with community organizations to provide free training. Programs through the Colorado Department of Human Services or local job placement agencies often offer healthcare training subsidies, including CNA programs, if you meet certain eligibility requirements.
By reaching out to hospitals directly, exploring workforce development centers, and checking online for specific job postings or training announcements, you can increase your chances of finding free CNA training in Colorado Springs.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about training to become a Certified Nursing Assistant at a hospital in Colorado Springs:
1. What are the benefits of training as a CNA in a hospital setting?
Training in a hospital offers a high-paced environment where CNAs can gain hands-on experience with a variety of patient care tasks. Hospitals often offer a broader scope of training, exposing CNAs to different departments and specialties. CNAs in hospitals also tend to work closely with RNs and doctors, which can be beneficial for learning advanced care techniques.
2. How long does CNA training typically take in a hospital?
Hospital-based CNA programs vary in length but usually range from 4 to 12 weeks. The program duration depends on whether the training is accelerated or part-time. Some hospitals offer weekend or evening programs to accommodate students with other commitments.
3. Do hospitals offer paid CNA training?
Some hospitals provide paid training for CNAs, where trainees receive a salary while attending classes and clinical training. This is often part of a program where the trainee agrees to work for the hospital for a set period after certification.
4. Is the CNA certification process different if I train at a hospital?
No, the certification process remains the same regardless of the training location. After completing the required hours of training and clinical work, students must pass a state certification exam to become a CNA. Hospitals may offer additional prep or resources for taking the exam.
5. What is the job placement rate for CNAs trained in hospitals?
Hospitals typically have a high job placement rate for CNAs, especially if the hospital itself provides the training. Many hospitals hire CNAs directly after they complete their certification, ensuring a smoother transition into the workforce.
6. What are the requirements to enroll in a hospital-based CNA program?
Each hospital may have different prerequisites, but common requirements include being at least 18 years old (or 16 with parental consent), passing a background check, completing a TB test, and having up-to-date immunization records. Some programs may also require a high school diploma or equivalent.
7. What is the workload like for CNA training at a hospital?
CNA training at a hospital can be intensive, especially if you are in an accelerated program. Students can expect a mix of classroom instruction and clinical practice, with schedules that can sometimes mirror the demanding nature of hospital work, including weekends and long shifts.
8. Can hospital-trained CNAs specialize in certain areas of care?
Yes, hospital-based CNA programs often expose students to a range of specialties, such as pediatrics, surgery, oncology, or intensive care, which can provide a foundation for future specialization.
9. Do hospitals provide financial assistance for CNA training?
Some hospitals offer financial assistance or reimbursement programs for those training as CNAs. Additionally, some may partner with local workforce development programs that provide scholarships or grants for healthcare training.
10. What happens after I finish my CNA training at a hospital?
After completing your training and passing the state certification exam, you will typically be eligible to work at the hospital where you trained or seek employment elsewhere. Many hospitals also provide additional opportunities for career advancement, such as continuing education or support for pursuing an RN degree.
These are some of the common FAQs prospective students might ask when considering CNA training in a hospital setting.