Frequently Asked Questions

What does HCA Basic Training cover?

Wellspring's 75-hour DSHS-approved HCA Basic Training covers everything required by Washington State WAC 388-112A: personal care skills (bathing, dressing, transfers), safety and infection control, resident rights and abuse prevention, dementia awareness, nutrition, medication awareness, and hands-on clinical skills practiced in our fully equipped Lakewood skills lab. Graduates are prepared to work in Adult Family Homes, Assisted Living Facilities, and Home Care Agencies.

What delivery formats are available?

We offer three flexible formats: (1) 100% Online — self-paced theory with live identity verification; (2) Hybrid — online theory combined with in-person skills lab sessions; (3) Fully In-Person — all instruction and skills lab at our Lakewood facility.

What schedule options are available?

The intensive format runs 2 weeks / 10 days (Monday–Friday). Evening and weekend formats are also available to fit your work and family schedule. Most students are job-ready within 2–4 weeks of enrolling.

How does the DSHS certification exam process work?

After completing the 75-hour training, you take the Washington State Home Care Aide competency exam administered by Prometric on behalf of DSHS. The exam has two parts: a written knowledge test and a hands-on skills demonstration. Wellspring Academy includes full exam prep — practice tests, skills review sessions, and application guidance — as part of your program fee. You must pass both parts to receive your HCA certification.

What is the retake policy if I don't pass the exam?

Washington State allows multiple exam attempts within your certification window. If you do not pass on the first try, Wellspring instructors will work with you one-on-one to identify and address any areas of difficulty. We provide additional exam prep and review sessions to prepare you for your retake at no extra charge — because your success is our success.

What is your exam pass rate goal?

Our goal is a 100% first-attempt pass rate for all Wellspring graduates. We work toward this through dedicated exam prep sessions, individualized instructor support, and extensive hands-on skills practice in our fully equipped skills lab. Every student receives the preparation and attention needed to walk into the Prometric exam with confidence.

What is the total cost of the HCA program?

Here is the full itemized breakdown: Base Program Price: $745.00 — this includes a $100 non-refundable Registration Fee. Washington State sales tax of 10.3% adds $76.74. Total Due at Checkout: $821.74. This covers your full 75-hour training, all course materials, and exam prep support. All charges are itemized clearly before you complete payment.

Are self-pay and employer-sponsored options available?

Yes. We accept self-pay via credit/debit card, CashApp, Zelle, and pay-by-phone. Employer-sponsored tuition assistance is also accepted — if your employer is covering your training costs, contact us at (907) 414-3347 (Call or Text) to coordinate payment. We are committed to making this training accessible to everyone who wants to pursue a caregiving career.

Is financial aid or funding assistance available?

Yes. Wellspring Academy works with WorkSource WA and WIOA-funded programs to provide no- or low-cost training to eligible unemployed and underemployed adults. Additional funding sources may include DSHS Basic Food Employment & Training (BFET), Workforce Development Councils, and employer-sponsored tuition assistance. Contact us to find out which funding options you may qualify for.

Where is Wellspring Academy located?

Wellspring Academy is located at 8815 S. Tacoma Way, Suite 120, Lakewood, WA 98499. We are conveniently situated in the heart of Lakewood, easily accessible from Tacoma, Federal Way, Puyallup, and surrounding Pierce County communities. The facility is on a major bus route (Pierce Transit serves S. Tacoma Way directly) and close to I-5.

Is parking available at the facility?

Yes. Free on-site parking is available in the building parking lot at 8815 S. Tacoma Way. The facility is also accessible by public transit — Pierce Transit routes serve S. Tacoma Way directly, making it easy to reach without a car.

What should I bring to the skills lab?

For skills lab sessions, please bring: a valid government-issued photo ID, comfortable closed-toe shoes (no sandals or open-toe footwear), your course materials and any printed handouts, a pen and notepad, and a water bottle. Scrubs are provided as part of your program fee — no need to purchase them separately. Please arrive 10–15 minutes early to check in with the instructor.