This study reviewed research on how India’s community health workers, known as ASHAs, support maternal and newborn health. Findings from 38 studies showed that ASHAs help improve antenatal visits, hospital deliveries, and postnatal care, though the impact is modest. Their performance is influenced by personal, cultural, and health system factors. The study recommends stronger … [Read more...] about Performance and Challenges of Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs) on Key Maternal and Newborn Health (MNH) Service Coverage in India: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
CHW Role
Community-based hearing aid fitting model for adults in low-income communities facilitated by community health workers: a feasibility study
This study tested whether community health workers could successfully fit hearing aids for people in a low-income area in Cape Town, South Africa. Twenty-five participants received over-the-counter hearing aids, and most reported better hearing, especially in noisy places, along with high satisfaction and daily use. Nearly all said the hearing aids were very helpful and would … [Read more...] about Community-based hearing aid fitting model for adults in low-income communities facilitated by community health workers: a feasibility study
A realist perspective on optimizing community health workers’ roles and functions to deliver integrated people-centred care
This study explored how community health workers (CHWs) in rural South Africa deliver care that focuses on people’s needs. It found that trust, legitimacy, and motivation are key to helping CHWs connect with communities and coordinate services. These work best when CHWs have proper supervision, are part of the formal health system, and collaborate with other sectors. However, … [Read more...] about A realist perspective on optimizing community health workers’ roles and functions to deliver integrated people-centred care
Home-Based Care for Hypertension in Rural South Africa
This study tested home-based care for people with high blood pressure in South Africa. Adults were split into three groups: standard clinic care, home care with CHW visits and remote nurse support, and an enhanced version where blood pressure readings were sent automatically. After six months, both home care groups had much lower blood pressure and better control rates than the … [Read more...] about Home-Based Care for Hypertension in Rural South Africa
Community Health Worker Roles in Intervention Delivery: A Scoping Review of Heart Disease and Stroke Prevention Trials in the United States
This review looked at 24 studies in the US on how Community Health Workers (CHWs) help prevent heart disease and stroke. CHWs played a key role by educating communities, coaching people on healthy habits, and supporting medication use, especially in underserved areas. Most studies focused on heart disease, with few addressing stroke prevention. CHWs also helped with data … [Read more...] about Community Health Worker Roles in Intervention Delivery: A Scoping Review of Heart Disease and Stroke Prevention Trials in the United States