This study explored how social workers (SWs) and community health workers (CHWs) help families with social needs during and after a child’s hospital stay. Interviews with staff at three children’s hospitals showed that SWs and CHWs play different but complementary roles. They work to support families while encouraging independence, but face challenges like keeping resource … [Read more...] about Social Worker and Community Health Worker Collaboration in Addressing Social Needs
United States of America
Generational Perspectives and Advocacy Barriers Among Community Health Workers: Implications for Public Health Workforce Leadership
This study explored how age and experience affect the work of community health workers (CHWs) in Texas. Younger CHWs were more focused on mentorship, while older CHWs prioritized policy advocacy. Lack of funding was the top challenge, and newer CHWs reported more barriers and discrimination. Job satisfaction increased with age, highlighting the need for strategies that support … [Read more...] about Generational Perspectives and Advocacy Barriers Among Community Health Workers: Implications for Public Health Workforce Leadership
Incorporating community-engaged research into a statewide community health worker-driven infrastructure for addressing health disparities in public health emergency
This study looked at a new statewide model in Indiana that puts community health workers (CHWs) at the center of efforts to reduce health disparities and strengthen public health. Through focus groups across nine districts, CHWs and community partners proposed solutions like improving health literacy, expanding transportation, increasing access to care, and offering preventive … [Read more...] about Incorporating community-engaged research into a statewide community health worker-driven infrastructure for addressing health disparities in public health emergency
Implementing a Community Health Worker Model to Address Health-Related Social Needs in a Community Pharmacy Network: A Pragmatic Evaluation
This study tested a program in New York where pharmacy staff were trained as community health workers to screen for social needs like food, housing, and transportation, and connect patients to support. Out of more than 1,000 people screened, nearly half of referrals were successfully resolved. The program also proved cost-effective, saving far more than it cost to run. The … [Read more...] about Implementing a Community Health Worker Model to Address Health-Related Social Needs in a Community Pharmacy Network: A Pragmatic Evaluation
Equity-Centered Development of a Community Health Worker Intervention to Improve Engagement in Care for ADHD
This study developed and tested a new program called START (SupporT for ADHD and Related Treatment), where community health workers support families of children recently diagnosed with ADHD. Eighteen families participated, and most reported high satisfaction, saying START made them more open to using medication, therapy, or school services. Families also showed increased … [Read more...] about Equity-Centered Development of a Community Health Worker Intervention to Improve Engagement in Care for ADHD