CHW Central

A global resource for and about Community Health Workers

South Africa

Diabetic retinopathy screening and referrals: Knowledge, attitudes and practices among community health workers in South Africa

by

This study looked at how much community health workers in rural South Africa know about diabetic eye disease and whether they help refer patients for screening. Most workers had good knowledge and positive attitudes, and many were already referring patients for screening, but over half had never received formal training on the condition. The study shows that better training … [Read more...] about Diabetic retinopathy screening and referrals: Knowledge, attitudes and practices among community health workers in South Africa

Community and health systems learning: critical realist evaluation of the VAPAR ‘learning platform’ in rural South Africa 2015-25

by

This study looked at a program in rural South Africa that brought communities, health workers, and decision-makers together to learn and solve health problems. Over time, it helped build trust, improve teamwork, and strengthen the role of community health workers, making health services more responsive to local needs. The approach became part of the health system and adapted to … [Read more...] about Community and health systems learning: critical realist evaluation of the VAPAR ‘learning platform’ in rural South Africa 2015-25

Operationalising palliative care integration: Experiences of implementers in South Africa

by

This study looked at how palliative care is being put into practice in public health facilities in South Africa. It found that health workers had different levels of confidence in providing care and faced challenges like limited staff, time, and training. Good teamwork, clear communication, and strong leadership were seen as important for better care. The study shows that more … [Read more...] about Operationalising palliative care integration: Experiences of implementers in South Africa

Designing and testing a solution to fill ART knowledge gaps at primary healthcare level: WhatsApp-based microlearning

by

South Africa has the world’s largest HIV treatment program, but healthcare workers often lack up-to-date knowledge on drug interactions, like those for dolutegravir. A survey of 1,950 workers showed major knowledge gaps, with only 56% having received training. To address this, a WhatsApp-based microlearning program was tested with nurses and community health workers in rural … [Read more...] about Designing and testing a solution to fill ART knowledge gaps at primary healthcare level: WhatsApp-based microlearning

Preset Hearing Aid Program Selection in Low-Income Communities: A Longitudinal Study

by

This study looked at using preset hearing aids delivered by community health workers (CHWs) in low-income South African communities. Adults with moderate-to-severe hearing loss could choose from four preset programs. Most participants changed their program at least once over six months, and many choices didn’t match clinical recommendations. The findings show CHWs can help … [Read more...] about Preset Hearing Aid Program Selection in Low-Income Communities: A Longitudinal Study