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
North America (U.S. and Canada)
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
People Versus Product: Conditions for Success for Community Health Workers as Sustainable Members of the Public Health Workforce
This study looked at community health workers’ (CHWs) experiences during COVID-19 response efforts in Orange County, California. CHWs said their ability to connect with communities was valued, but their behind-the-scenes work often went unrecognized, and low pay and limited support made their jobs harder. They emphasized the need for fair compensation and proper recognition to … [Read more...] about People Versus Product: Conditions for Success for Community Health Workers as Sustainable Members of the Public Health Workforce