What training is required to be a caregiver in the AMFC program, and what is the timeline? Our team breaks it down.

Caring for a medically fragile child requires specialized skills and knowledge, which is why the Home Health Aide for Medically Fragile Children (AMFC) program provides comprehensive training for family caregivers. This training ensures caregivers can confidently manage their child’s medical needs while being compensated for their care. 

The program offers a flexible, self-paced structure that includes theoretical instruction, hands-on in-home training, and a skills competency assessment. Understanding what training is required to be a caregiver for the Florida AMFC program and the timeline is essential for families preparing to take on this important role.

What You’ll Learn in Caregiver Training

Whether you’re becoming a professional caregiver or planning to care for a loved one at home, caregiver training equips you with the tools to provide safe, confident, and compassionate care. Here’s what you can expect to learn:

• How to assist with daily living activities like bathing, dressing, and feeding
• Basic first aid and emergency response protocols
• Infection prevention and hygiene best practices
• Understanding client rights, privacy laws (HIPAA), and documentation
• Techniques for supporting mobility and preventing falls
• How to communicate effectively with patients, families, and healthcare providers
• Emotional support strategies for end-of-life care and chronic conditions
• Special training (such as the AMFC program) for caring for medically fragile children

Getting Started

Families interested in the AMFC program can begin by calling our main line. Our team will guide you through the initial steps based on your situation.

• If your child is already a patient or in the referral process with us, ask to speak with a Recruiter. Your assigned Recruiter will help you start the caregiver employment process. This includes submitting an employment application, initiating a background check, and reviewing eligibility requirements.
• If this is your first time reaching out about the program, an Intake Coordinator will gather details about your child’s case. In most situations, the hiring process begins after admission, but in some cases, we can start it beforehand.

No matter where you are in the process, our team is here to ensure a smooth transition into the AMFC program.

Step-by-Step Timeline to Your First Shift

Step 1: Application and Background Check (1-2 Weeks)

Once the application is submitted, our team will process the background check and verify eligibility. This step ensures that all caregivers meet the necessary requirements to provide care through the AMFC program.

Step 2: AMFC Training 101 (Self-Paced, Typically 1-2 Weeks)

Caregivers begin their training with 40 hours of theoretical instruction. This phase includes:

• Training in nursing fundamentals
• Infection control and medication management
• CPR certification
• Completion of the AMFC Training 101 Certificate Since this portion is self-paced, caregivers can move through it as quickly or gradually as their schedule allows.

Step 3: In-Home Training with an RN (Varies Based on Availability)

After completing theoretical instruction, caregivers begin in-home training with their assigned RN. This phase is tailored to the child’s specific medical needs and includes hands-on instruction during regular shifts. The training is scheduled at the caregiver’s convenience, ensuring flexibility.

Step 4: Skills Competency Testing (Final Evaluation)

The last step before officially starting is the skills competency test. During this assessment, the RN observes the caregiver performing essential tasks to confirm their ability to independently manage the child’s care. This step is conducted at home, in a familiar setting. 

Upon completing the required training, caregivers receive the AMFC Training 101 Certificate and a skills competency validation. 

Step 5: First Official Shift

Once training and competency testing are complete, caregivers can begin working their first official shift. At this point, they are fully prepared to provide care and receive compensation through Atlantic Care Services.

Common Questions About Caregiver Training

Caregivers and families often have questions about what training involves, how long it takes, and what it qualifies them to do. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions we receive:

Q: What kind of training is required to become a caregiver?
Caregiver training typically includes classroom instruction, in-home clinical hours, and a skills competency assessment. For example, caregivers in the AMFC program complete 40 hours of online coursework, 36 hours of supervised in-home training, and a 16-hour evaluation.

Q: Do I need experience or a diploma to begin caregiver training?
No previous experience is necessary. Most caregiver roles—especially those supporting family members—start with entry-level training. While a high school diploma is preferred by some employers, it’s not always required.

Q: Can I get paid to care for my own child or family member?
Yes, under programs like AMFC in Florida, eligible parents and guardians can be employed and paid as caregivers after completing required training and background checks.

Q: How long does caregiver training take?
Training timelines vary. Some programs, like AMFC, can be completed in a few weeks depending on your availability. Other caregiver roles may require additional certifications or continuing education over time.

Q: Is caregiver training available online?
Yes. Many foundational courses, especially for family caregivers, are offered online. Atlantic Care Services begins training with a 40-hour online course, followed by hands-on instruction in the home.

Q: Will this training prepare me to care for both children and seniors?
Yes, but the training may differ slightly depending on your client’s needs. Specialized pediatric training is provided for AMFC caregivers, while other programs focus more on adult or senior care.

Q: Are continuing education hours required after I complete training?
In most cases, yes. Ongoing education ensures caregivers stay up to date on safety protocols, medical procedures, and regulatory requirements. Your agency will inform you of what’s needed.

Q: What kinds of things will I learn during training?
Caregiver training teaches you how to assist with bathing, mobility, feeding, medication reminders, hygiene, emergency response, infection prevention, patient rights, and communication with care teams.

Q: Who provides the training, and how do I get started?
Training is provided through a Medicaid-approved home health agency like Atlantic Care Services. To begin, contact us and we’ll walk you through eligibility, background screening, and enrollment steps.

Take The First Step Today!

If you are interested in becoming a family home health aid for medically fragile children through the AMFC program, contact us today. Our team is ready to guide you through the training process and ensure that you are fully prepared to care for your medically fragile child.