Community health workers (CHWs) are well-positioned to provide essential healthcare due, in part, to their deep integration with the community they serve. Researchers conducted a qualitative study in six provinces in South Africa to better understand CHW policy implementation. Through interviews with provincial and district health managers and service providers, they identified … [Read more...] about Community health worker models in South Africa: a qualitative study on policy implementation of the 2018/19 revised framework
South Africa
Community health workers’ efforts to build health system trust in marginalised communities: a qualitative study from South Africa
The authors of this study investigate CHW workplace trust, trust between the patient and the CHW, and trust in the health system within the national CHW program in South Africa. They found that while CHWs had low workplace trust and there is low trust in the healthcare system to provide adequate care, there is significant trust between CHWs and their patients. These results … [Read more...] about Community health workers’ efforts to build health system trust in marginalised communities: a qualitative study from South Africa
Compensation models for community health workers: Comparison of legal frameworks across five countries
Despite their vital function in keeping communities healthy and safe, community health worker (CHW) pay has long been a subject to global debate. This study maps the legal environment for CHW compensation in Brazil, Ghana, Nigeria, Rwanda, and South Africa. Ultimately, having a strong legal framework does not guarantee proper compensation for CHWs, but it is an important first … [Read more...] about Compensation models for community health workers: Comparison of legal frameworks across five countries
Integrated community case management of childhood illness in low- and middle-income countries
In 2018, infectious diseases were the leading cause of mortality in children younger than five years of age in sub‐Saharan Africa and Southern Asia. Lack of proper nutrition contributed to 45% of deaths in children under five. To address these disparities, the World Health Organization (WHO) and United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) developed “integrated community case … [Read more...] about Integrated community case management of childhood illness in low- and middle-income countries
Community health workers to improve adherence to anti‐seizure medication in rural South Africa: Is it cost‐effective?
Epilepsy is a common disorder that disproportionately affects individuals living in LMICs. CHWs have proven to be key partners in maintaining adherence to treatment plans and medications, yet the cost of employing CHWs in epilepsy management has not been documented. This study found that CHWs are a cost‐effective intervention in epilepsy management. … [Read more...] about Community health workers to improve adherence to anti‐seizure medication in rural South Africa: Is it cost‐effective?