This study found that community health workers in South Africa already help connect communities with health services, social support programs, and local leaders, even though this role is often not officially recognized. The researchers argue that community health workers should be better supported and included in health system planning because they can help coordinate services … [Read more...] about Repositioning Community Health Workers as Boundary Spanners: A Realist-Informed Theory of Change for Integrated People-Centred Care in South Africa
CHW programs
Promotores program to increase Hispanic/Latino(a) participation in Alzheimer’s disease research
This study looked at whether trained community health workers, known as Promotores, could help increase participation of Hispanic and Latino communities in Alzheimer’s research. The training improved their understanding of research and brain health, and they were just as successful as clinic-based recruitment in enrolling participants into studies. The findings show that … [Read more...] about Promotores program to increase Hispanic/Latino(a) participation in Alzheimer’s disease research
Reconceptualizing integrated people-centred health services: Towards a mechanism-sensitive model using realist evaluation
This study explored how community health workers help make health care more people-centered in South Africa. It found that trust, motivation, and feeling valued and supported are key factors that help community health workers perform well. These factors work together, and when health system strategies are aligned and supportive, community health workers can provide better care … [Read more...] about Reconceptualizing integrated people-centred health services: Towards a mechanism-sensitive model using realist evaluation
Fair pay, performance optimizer, or status marker? The social meaning of remuneration for India’s women community health workers
This study explored how community health workers in India view their pay. It found that they see payment in three main ways: as fair compensation for their work, as a way to motivate better performance, and as a sign of how much their work is valued. Most workers felt that being paid through small incentives instead of a regular salary lowers their status and respect compared … [Read more...] about Fair pay, performance optimizer, or status marker? The social meaning of remuneration for India’s women community health workers
Power, surveillance, and the limits of resistance: The role of community health workers in India’s health system
This study looked at the working conditions of community health workers in India and how the health system relies on them. It found that these workers often have many responsibilities but little power, face low and unstable pay, and are closely monitored. These conditions limit their ability to make decisions or push back, even as they play a key role in keeping the health … [Read more...] about Power, surveillance, and the limits of resistance: The role of community health workers in India’s health system