This article outlines how Arkansas developed its community health worker (CHW) programs to address health disparities, especially in rural areas. It covers CHW training, certification, apprenticeships, and upskilling opportunities, as well as both successful and failed policy efforts. The experience highlights how collaboration between healthcare organizations, communities, and … [Read more...] about Developing a Sustainable Community Health Workforce in Arkansas
North America (U.S. and Canada)
Long-term cost-effectiveness of a mobile health intervention delivered by clinical pharmacists and community health workers for type 2 diabetes management in urban African American and Latinx populations
This study evaluated a team-based mobile health program (mDAS) for diabetes support among urban African American and Latinx patients. The program, involving pharmacists and community health workers, improved health outcomes and reduced healthcare costs compared to usual care. Over time, participants gained more quality-adjusted life years and the health system saved money, … [Read more...] about Long-term cost-effectiveness of a mobile health intervention delivered by clinical pharmacists and community health workers for type 2 diabetes management in urban African American and Latinx populations
Connecting with community in a public health emergency: a pilot project example for local public health and the communities they serve
This study tested a simple tool to help community health workers support families during the COVID-19 pandemic. The tool guided CHWs on how to talk with families about COVID-19, answer concerns, encourage safe practices and vaccination, and connect people to needed services. CHWs found the tool useful and easy to adapt to their communities, helping them build trust and share … [Read more...] about Connecting with community in a public health emergency: a pilot project example for local public health and the communities they serve
Effective yet Undervalued: Elevating Community Health Workers
Community health workers are trusted members of the communities they serve and have been shown to improve health outcomes in many cost-effective ways. Yet they are still underused and poorly supported. Focus groups with experienced CHWs in Philadelphia and Baltimore showed they face growing demands, limited support, and systems that are not keeping up. Without better investment … [Read more...] about Effective yet Undervalued: Elevating Community Health Workers
Supporting healthy weight in times of crisis: results of a one-year community health worker-led intervention among food (in)secure low-income Latinas
This study looked at a community health worker–led weight program for low-income Latina women during the first year of COVID-19. Participants lost weight and reduced waist size, even those facing food insecurity, at a time when many others were gaining weight. The results suggest that support and practical health education from community health workers can help people improve … [Read more...] about Supporting healthy weight in times of crisis: results of a one-year community health worker-led intervention among food (in)secure low-income Latinas