CHW Central

A global resource for and about Community Health Workers

South Africa

Operationalising palliative care integration: Experiences of implementers in South Africa

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This study looked at how palliative care is being put into practice in public health facilities in South Africa. It found that health workers had different levels of confidence in providing care and faced challenges like limited staff, time, and training. Good teamwork, clear communication, and strong leadership were seen as important for better care. The study shows that more … [Read more...] about Operationalising palliative care integration: Experiences of implementers in South Africa

Designing and testing a solution to fill ART knowledge gaps at primary healthcare level: WhatsApp-based microlearning

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South Africa has the world’s largest HIV treatment program, but healthcare workers often lack up-to-date knowledge on drug interactions, like those for dolutegravir. A survey of 1,950 workers showed major knowledge gaps, with only 56% having received training. To address this, a WhatsApp-based microlearning program was tested with nurses and community health workers in rural … [Read more...] about Designing and testing a solution to fill ART knowledge gaps at primary healthcare level: WhatsApp-based microlearning

Preset Hearing Aid Program Selection in Low-Income Communities: A Longitudinal Study

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This study looked at using preset hearing aids delivered by community health workers (CHWs) in low-income South African communities. Adults with moderate-to-severe hearing loss could choose from four preset programs. Most participants changed their program at least once over six months, and many choices didn’t match clinical recommendations. The findings show CHWs can help … [Read more...] about Preset Hearing Aid Program Selection in Low-Income Communities: A Longitudinal Study

Building community capacity in diabetes care: Perspectives of community health workers

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This study explored how community health workers (CHWs) in South Africa see their role in supporting people with diabetes. Through group discussions with 32 CHWs in Tshwane District, researchers found that their main work involves health education on diet, lifestyle, medication, family involvement, and self-care. CHWs also help with screening, follow-up, and referrals. The … [Read more...] about Building community capacity in diabetes care: Perspectives of community health workers

Community-based hearing aid fitting model for adults in low-income communities facilitated by community health workers: a feasibility study

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This study tested whether community health workers could successfully fit hearing aids for people in a low-income area in Cape Town, South Africa. Twenty-five participants received over-the-counter hearing aids, and most reported better hearing, especially in noisy places, along with high satisfaction and daily use. Nearly all said the hearing aids were very helpful and would … [Read more...] about Community-based hearing aid fitting model for adults in low-income communities facilitated by community health workers: a feasibility study