This paper describes an initiative in Ontario, Canada, that aimed to improve education and career opportunities for Community Health Workers (CHWs). Because CHWs have strong knowledge of their communities and help people overcome barriers to healthcare, the Bridge to Care Initiative worked with CHWs and other partners to develop training that reflects their role in healthcare. … [Read more...] about Co-designing education with and for community health workers: creating a bridge to care
Canada
Safe Patient Handling Musculoskeletal Injury-Prevention Smartphone App for Community Health Care Workers: Mixed Methods Feasibility Study
This study developed and tested the SPH MSIP smartphone app to help community health care workers handle patients safely and prevent musculoskeletal injuries. Through co-design with workers, the app provides step-by-step guidance for high-risk tasks. In a one-month trial with 28 participants, the app was easy to use, useful, and well-received. Results suggest it can support … [Read more...] about Safe Patient Handling Musculoskeletal Injury-Prevention Smartphone App for Community Health Care Workers: Mixed Methods Feasibility Study
Coaching Community Volunteers to Support Children With Disabilities: A Brief Report
This study explored whether coaching adult volunteers to support children with disabilities (CWD) in a church setting could increase their inclusion. The intervention showed positive results, with improvements in participation and satisfaction for CWD, as well as better social connections. The study suggests that coaching community members to support CWD is a feasible way to … [Read more...] about Coaching Community Volunteers to Support Children With Disabilities: A Brief Report
A mixed-methods exploration on whether and how community health navigators impact the mental health of adults with chronic health conditions in ENCOMPASS
This study looked at how the Community Health Navigator (CHN) program, part of the ENCOMPASS study in Calgary, Canada, helps patients with chronic health conditions (CHCs) manage their mental health, particularly anxiety and depression. CHNs assist patients by connecting them to care, resources, and offering emotional support. The study involved both surveys and interviews to … [Read more...] about A mixed-methods exploration on whether and how community health navigators impact the mental health of adults with chronic health conditions in ENCOMPASS
Piloting a community health and well-being worker model in Cornwall: a guide for implementation and spread
This paper reviews the introduction of ten Community Health and Well-being Workers (CHWWs) at four pilot sites in Cornwall from June 2022 to June 2023. By joining an established social prescribing system, CHWWs quickly integrated, sharing training, office space, and management structures with existing social prescribers. Key challenges included adapting voluntary sector staff … [Read more...] about Piloting a community health and well-being worker model in Cornwall: a guide for implementation and spread