This study explored the use of private pharmacies and community health volunteers to increase access to medication abortion and other sexual and reproductive health services in Homa Bay County, Kenya. Between April and December 2022, 527 clients received medication abortion drugs from participating pharmacies, with a steady rise in the number of clients over time. The study … [Read more...] about Assessing feasibility and acceptability of increasing access to sexual and reproductive health and rights through pharmacy outlets and community health volunteers: lessons from pilot study in Kenya
Evaluation
The role of a structured community health worker network in achieving malaria elimination goals in the Dominican Republic: An impact evaluation amid COVID-19 disruptions
Community health workers (CHWs) in the Dominican Republic played a key role in reducing malaria cases in urban areas of Greater Santo Domingo. From 2019 to 2022, malaria cases dropped from 1,243 to just 6. CHWs identified and treated cases faster than health facilities, with most cases found through proactive household visits. Although COVID-19 disrupted their work, the network … [Read more...] about The role of a structured community health worker network in achieving malaria elimination goals in the Dominican Republic: An impact evaluation amid COVID-19 disruptions
Changing power narratives: an exemplar case study on the professionalisation of community health workers in Liberia
Community health workers (CHWs) are vital for health equity, yet most are unpaid and unrecognized as part of the health workforce. This study examines Liberia’s success in creating a nationwide policy to professionalize and pay CHWs. Liberia overcame resistance from funders by showing strong political commitment, uniting government departments, and using evidence focused on CHW … [Read more...] about Changing power narratives: an exemplar case study on the professionalisation of community health workers in Liberia
A multi-phase structured cascade model for mass training of community healthcare workers in performing clinical breast exams in remote regions
A pilot training program in Pakistan used a cascade model to teach outreach healthcare workers (HCWs) in remote areas how to perform clinical breast exams (CBEs). Six HCWs were trained by breast surgeons, who then trained 15 more HCWs. The program significantly improved HCWs' confidence and skills, with gains sustained over a year. This model shows promise for expanding access … [Read more...] about A multi-phase structured cascade model for mass training of community healthcare workers in performing clinical breast exams in remote regions
Community Health Workers: Catalysts for a Reimagined Health System
The Common Health Challenge is an annual event where members and partners come together to focus on improving the health system. The 2024 Challenge highlights the role of Community Health Workers (CHWs) in connecting healthcare, public health, and community organizations. By integrating CHWs, we can make progress in health equity, strengthen communities, and achieve better … [Read more...] about Community Health Workers: Catalysts for a Reimagined Health System