CHW programs

The potential of a “next generation” of community health workers to accelerate progress in reaching Universal Health Coverage and Health for All

This article highlights how well-supported community health workers (CHWs) can help countries improve access to healthcare and achieve Universal Health Coverage. It argues that CHWs should be a key part of primary healthcare, with proper training, fair pay, equipment, supervision, and support to visit households regularly and provide essential health services. The authors … [Read more...] about The potential of a “next generation” of community health workers to accelerate progress in reaching Universal Health Coverage and Health for All

This study analysed malaria case management in Sierra Leone between 2019 and 2023 using national health records. Of the 16.4 million reported fever cases, 90% were treated at health facilities, while 10% were managed by community health workers. The study found that people treated by community health workers were more likely to receive malaria treatment within 24 hours of … [Read more...] about A nationwide study of community- versus facility-based management of malaria in Sierra Leone from 2019 to 2023

This study explored the needs of community health volunteers (CHVs) providing palliative care in Mutungo Parish, Uganda. Interviews with eight CHVs revealed four main challenges: limited training in palliative care, shortages of medical supplies and transport support, difficulties communicating and coordinating care, and heavy workloads due to staff shortages. The CHVs called … [Read more...] about Bridging the gap: Understanding the needs of community health volunteers to enhance palliative care delivery

This study examined whether organisations with established community health worker (CHW) programmes were better prepared to respond to public health emergencies than those that were still developing their programmes. Using data from 67 organisations involved in the United States’ COVID-19 response initiative (2021–2024), the study found that organisations with existing CHW … [Read more...] about Examining Differences in Community Health Worker (CHW) Training Based on Organizational Experience With CHWs: A Call for CHW Workforce Sustainability

This study explored how community health workers (CHWs) were included in health organisations and care teams across seven sites in the United States. Interviews with 25 CHWs, programme staff and partners found that clear job roles, supportive leadership, good communication, teamwork and involving CHWs in decisions helped them become valued members of organisations. However, … [Read more...] about Best Practices for Integrating Community Health Workers Into Care Teams and Organizations: Lessons From the Front Line