Climate change is already harming people’s health, especially in poorer and vulnerable communities, and these impacts are expected to get worse. Community health workers (CHWs), who are trusted and closely connected to their communities, are well placed to help people prepare for and cope with these challenges by sharing clear information, supporting individuals with health … [Read more...] about Enhancing Extreme Weather Preparedness Through Community Health Workers
Climate
Frontline heroes: Leveraging community health workers as first responders for climate-related digital mental health support
After severe floods in Pakistan disrupted health services and increased mental health needs, a digital program called mPareshan trained community health workers to provide app-based counseling for anxiety and depression. Despite the crisis and shortage of mental health professionals, these workers continued supporting affected communities using the mobile tool. The project … [Read more...] about Frontline heroes: Leveraging community health workers as first responders for climate-related digital mental health support
Safeguarding planetary health: the contribution of community health workers to climate stability, global equity, and social justice
Planetary health, the link between human health and nature, is under serious threat from climate change, pollution, and biodiversity loss. Progress to protect the planet is slow, and urgent action is needed. Community health workers (CHWs), who live and work in their communities, are trusted and well-placed to help address climate-related health challenges. By including climate … [Read more...] about Safeguarding planetary health: the contribution of community health workers to climate stability, global equity, and social justice
Taking a Climate and Health History: A One Health-Informed Approach to Primary Care and Services
Climate change threatens health, especially in low‑ and middle‑income countries with weak health systems, yet healthcare often misses these risks. Using a One Health approach which links human, animal, and environmental health, clinicians and community health workers can include climate-related questions, like heat exposure, in routine care. This helps identify climate-related … [Read more...] about Taking a Climate and Health History: A One Health-Informed Approach to Primary Care and Services
Community health worker contributions to climate resilient health systems: A qualitative study of how community health workers navigate extreme weather events in the Philippines
This study looked at how community health workers (CHWs) in the Philippines experience and respond to extreme weather events. Interviews with 51 CHWs showed that their community and household roles influence how they prepare for, respond to, and recover from disasters. Many saw chances to play a stronger role in helping their communities but needed more training and resources. … [Read more...] about Community health worker contributions to climate resilient health systems: A qualitative study of how community health workers navigate extreme weather events in the Philippines