The health educators 7 Areas of Responsibility define the role of the health education specialist. These
Responsibilities were verified through the 2010 Health Educator Job Analysis Project. There are two levels
of certification: CHES is the entry-level for which you will be prepared by the time you graduate from this
program. It means "certified health education specialist". MCHES is the advanced level.
The CHES and MCHES designation after a health educators name is one indication of professional competency
and commitment to continued professional development.
The 7 Areas of Responsibility are described in detail at
Foundation for this assignment
A Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES) is someone who has met the standards of competence
established by the National Commission for Health Education Credentialing Inc. (NCHEC) and hassuccessfully
passed a national exam that is based on the 7 Areas of Responsibility. The CHES designation after a health
educators name is one indication of professional competency and commitment to continued professional
development. There is also an advanced level of certification, MCHES (Master Certified Health Education
Specialist) for those with a higher level of expertise.
Self-reflection and application of the module materials is improtant, especially when establishing a
foundation for the course. Before completing the assignment, read the expectations below.
1. Discuss a time when you felt that your level health literacy was not adequate to understand a health
issue you or a loved one were facing. You do not have to reveal personal medical information that you are
not comfortable sharing.
Describe how you dealt with the situation did you take steps to improve your health literacy? If so, what
did you do? How has that action affected your health behaviors?
If not, why not? How has that decision affected your health behaviors?
2. In one paragraph, summarize how this assignment has helped you in developing proficiency in the Health
Education Areas of Responsibility. Be specific in mentioning the Area and its associated Competencies.
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