Community health workers (CHWs) are trusted caregivers from the communities they serve. They help fill health care gaps and support people beyond clinic walls. Despite their important role, CHWs often face challenges like low pay, safety concerns, discrimination, and lack of support. Anthropologists have studied these problems and offered ideas to improve CHWs' working … [Read more...] about Community Health Workers
CHW Motivation
Sustaining Communities and Community Health Workers: Lessons Learned From Community Health Workers’ Experience During the COVID-19 Pandemic
During the COVID-19 pandemic, community health workers (CHWs) were vital in sharing health information and helping communities. To understand how to keep them motivated, 21 CHWs in New York City took part in focus groups. They said they need better mental health support, fair pay that reflects their value, and ongoing training with chances to grow in their jobs. Supporting CHWs … [Read more...] about Sustaining Communities and Community Health Workers: Lessons Learned From Community Health Workers’ Experience During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Visions of Community Health and the Social Good in Kenya: Turning Community Health Workers into Entrepreneurs
This study looks at a program in Kenya called Healthy Entrepreneurs, which trains community health workers to run small health businesses. Instead of relying on donations, the program gives them loans, business training, and mobile phones to order and sell health products in their villages. While the goal is to make healthcare more sustainable, it also puts pressure on … [Read more...] about Visions of Community Health and the Social Good in Kenya: Turning Community Health Workers into Entrepreneurs
Empowering Community Health Workers With Scripted Medicine: Design Science Research Study
This study developed and tested a new mobile health tool called Scripted Medicine to help community health workers (CHWs) in Lesotho take on more responsibilities in caring for chronic diseases. The tool uses clear medical guidelines and social communication scripts to teach CHWs both medical and counseling skills. Results showed that these tools helped CHWs feel more confident … [Read more...] about Empowering Community Health Workers With Scripted Medicine: Design Science Research Study
Employment–based community health workers: A model for meeting health–related social needs in the workplace
This study tested a program where Community Health Workers (CHWs) helped low-income and minority employees at a university connect to support services like food, housing, and financial help. Only 10% of employees used the service, but most said it met their needs and they would recommend it. A third also made healthy lifestyle changes. The results suggest CHWs can help … [Read more...] about Employment–based community health workers: A model for meeting health–related social needs in the workplace