Ballad Health CNA Program

Ballad Health’s program includes 100 clock hours total — split into 60 hours of classroom instruction and 40 hours of supervised clinical training. In-person students complete the classroom phase in six weeks, followed by a three-week clinical rotation.

Students enrolled in the hybrid (online) program complete coursework independently via computer and later attend in-person lab practice and clinicals.

Several scheduling formats are available:

• Daytime classes (Mon/Tues or Thurs/Fri, 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM)
• Evening and weekend classes (limited offerings, check schedule)
• Monday-only intensives (8:00 AM – 8:00 PM)
• Hybrid sessions (independent online work + on-site clinicals)

Start dates occur year-round, making this one of the most consistently available CNA training options in the region.

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While most classes take place at the Training and Education Center at 110 Ayers Place in Blountville, TN, Ballad Health may occasionally hold sessions at affiliated facilities throughout its service area.

Clinical rotations occur at Ballad Health hospitals, and students are able to self-schedule their clinical days and locations through an internal application. This flexibility helps students better manage work, school, or family obligations.

All clinicals are supervised by instructors and cannot be completed independently, ensuring the training meets state certification requirements.

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This CNA training is 100% free for eligible students. That includes:

• Classroom instruction
• Clinical training
• Background check
• Physical exam, including drug and nicotine screening

Ballad Health does not charge tuition, but students are expected to supply:

• Navy blue scrubs for clinicals
• Business casual or scrub attire for classroom sessions

There is no financial aid process, loan requirement, or hidden fees. However, while the training is free, the unspoken expectation is that graduates will apply for CNA positions within the Ballad Health system.

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This program has some firm requirements for eligibility. You must:

• Live within Ballad Health’s 29-county service area, which includes parts of Tennessee, Virginia, North Carolina, and Kentucky
• Be at least 16 years old
• Be actively enrolled in high school if not yet graduated
• Complete a background check and drug/nicotine screening through Ballad Health’s system (provided at no cost)
• Comply with Ballad Health’s full vaccination policy, including:
  • Flu vaccine
  • COVID-19 vaccine (Moderna, Pfizer, or J&J)
  • Other required immunizations per HR guidelines

Additionally, students are expected to:

• Wear appropriate attire during classroom and clinical hours

Adhere to strict attendance policies (60 classroom hours and 40 clinical hours must be completed to qualify for certification)

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While Ballad Health claims no contract is required, it’s strongly recommended that applicants indicate they plan to work for the organization after graduation. There’s no formal penalty for saying “no,” but selecting “yes” improves your chances of being accepted into the training.

Once your application is submitted, you’ll receive a link to complete the background check. If cleared, Ballad Health schedules your free physical and drug screening. From there, you’ll be enrolled in the next available session based on your preferences and availability.

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Ballad Health frequently hires graduates directly into open CNA roles across its facilities. While employment is not guaranteed, the training serves as a pipeline into the Ballad Health workforce. There are paid student opportunities as well, which may include temporary work assignments while you complete your certification.

Upon finishing the program and clinical hours, students prepare for the Tennessee Nurse Aide Competency Exam, which is required for state certification.

Ballad Health provides a state exam prep day as part of the program. While test fees and certification logistics are not detailed, this structured support is a helpful feature for test readiness.

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• Completely free for eligible residents
• Available to high school students (16+)
• Flexible formats (day, evening, weekend, hybrid)
• Self-scheduled clinical hours
• State-approved in Tennessee and Virginia
• Pipeline to Ballad Health jobs
• Covers cost of background check and physical
• Frequent start dates throughout the year
• Solid training environment in real hospital settings

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• While not contractually required, employment with Ballad Health is expected
• Not available outside the 29-county service area
• No support for relocation or out-of-region applicants
• Scrubs and attire must be purchased independently
• Must adhere to a strict attendance policy — missed hours can affect certification eligibility
• Certification exam cost and logistics not included in program details

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