CHW programs

Community health workers’ knowledge, attitudes and practices in the detection of respiratory symptomatic patients

This study looked at whether community health workers’ knowledge about tuberculosis (TB) affected how they detect patients with respiratory symptoms in primary care in Brazil. Among 129 workers, mostly women aged 40–49, the study found no link between their TB knowledge and their attitudes or practices. This suggests that factors other than knowledge influence how workers carry … [Read more...] about Community health workers’ knowledge, attitudes and practices in the detection of respiratory symptomatic patients

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) cause most deaths worldwide, especially in low- and middle-income countries. Community health workers (CHWs) are increasingly involved in NCD care. This review looked at recent evidence on the cost-effectiveness of CHW programs for NCDs in LMICs. Across 20 studies and 52 scenarios, most showed CHW programs were cost-effective, particularly for … [Read more...] about Costs and cost-effectiveness of community health worker programmes focussed on non-communicable diseases in low- and middle-income countries (2015-2024): a scoping literature review

Neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) affect over a billion people worldwide. Community health workers (CHWs) could help expand prevention and treatment in low- and middle-income countries, but there is limited evidence on costs and cost-effectiveness. A review of 10 studies found that CHW-led interventions varied widely in cost, with some showing cost-effectiveness, especially … [Read more...] about Economic evaluations of community health worker programs focussed on neglected tropical diseases in low- and middle-income countries (2015-2024): A scoping literature review

This study looks at how community health workers in Rwanda have grown and changed since 1995. Over time, their work expanded from basic health education to caring for common illnesses, supporting mothers and children, and responding to outbreaks. CHWs have played a major role in HIV and TB care and are trusted by their communities. Support from local leaders, fair incentives, … [Read more...] about Three decades of community health workers in primary healthcare delivery in Rwanda: evolution, impact and policy lessons

This study looked at older adults who had not received the flu vaccine and tested whether support from community health workers could help. Community health workers helped explain the vaccine, make access easier, and follow up with participants. After the program, flu vaccination rates doubled, and participants reported better overall health and less pain. The study shows that … [Read more...] about Influenza Vaccine Uptake in the Elderly: Biopsychosocial Vulnerabilities and Effectiveness of a Community-Health Worker Administered Preventive Program