This study assessed the first year of Ethiopia’s Health Extension Worker (HEW) training program, a central component of the Health Extension Program's (HEP). The authors used a questionnaire and observations on the training program’s inputs, processes, and outputs. They found that the training centers lacked adequate facilities for the HEW trainees and the selection and … [Read more...] about Assessment of the Training of the First Intake of Health Extension Workers
Journal articles
The role of community health workers in improving child health programmes in Mali
This article reports on a study assessing the performance of CHWs in the promotion of basic child health services in rural Mali. The study was conducted as a community based cross-sectional survey. Data were collected from 401 child caregivers and 72 CHWs. Analysis showed a positive influence of CHWs on family health practices. The authors conclude that providing continuous … [Read more...] about The role of community health workers in improving child health programmes in Mali
On the front line of primary health care: the profile of community health workers in rural Quechua communities in Peru
This article profiles CHWs, including health promoters, traditional birth attendants and traditional healers, serving rural Quechua communities from Ayacucho, Peru. It uses both quantitative and qualitative information from questionnaires, personal interviews and group discussions conducted in 40 communities. The majority of CHWs in Ayacucho are men with limited education who … [Read more...] about On the front line of primary health care: the profile of community health workers in rural Quechua communities in Peru
Tackling social factors to save lives in India
This article from the Bulletin of the WHO, describes various roles played by Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs), India's national cadre of village-based workers, and other innovative community health programs working on maternal and child health, sanitation and hygiene, contraception, immunization and other health issues. CHWs are making major contributions to national … [Read more...] about Tackling social factors to save lives in India
Non-financial Incentives for Voluntary Community Health Workers: A Qualitative Study
This article describes a qualitative study that examines the efficacy of non-financial incentives in sustaining volunteerism among CHWs. The study addresses: the motivation of volunteer CHWs; barriers and de-motivating factors; the effectiveness of non-financial incentives; and the mechanisms by which incentives motivate volunteer CHWs. The study also explores the role of … [Read more...] about Non-financial Incentives for Voluntary Community Health Workers: A Qualitative Study