This study looked at how community health workers (CHWs) in sub-Saharan Africa can better provide people-centered care. By reviewing research from 2014 to 2024, the study found that trust, motivation, and good leadership are key to CHW success. It also highlighted that CHWs work best when they are part of formal health systems, connected to community efforts, and supported by … [Read more...] about Optimizing the role and functions of CHWs in service of a people-centred community health system in sub-Saharan Africa. A realist synthesis
CHW Role
Exploring Sleep Beliefs, Attitudes and Behaviors in Women of Color Through the Lens of Community Health Workers
Community health workers (CHWs) play an important role in helping underserved communities learn about and improve their sleep health. This study spoke with 77 female CHWs from different cultural backgrounds to understand how their communities view sleep. Many said people often put family and community responsibilities ahead of getting good sleep. Some also faced cultural and … [Read more...] about Exploring Sleep Beliefs, Attitudes and Behaviors in Women of Color Through the Lens of Community Health Workers
Moving Towards a South African NHI System of Excellence: Recommendations Based on the Insider Perspectives of CHWs as Key Role-Players
South Africa’s government is improving primary health care through a new plan supported by National Health Insurance (NHI), with Community Health Workers (CHWs) playing a key role. This article shares the views of 31 CHWs from an NHI pilot district and gives suggestions to improve the program. These include having clear team leaders, providing regular training, keeping records … [Read more...] about Moving Towards a South African NHI System of Excellence: Recommendations Based on the Insider Perspectives of CHWs as Key Role-Players
In depth exploration of drivers of community health workers’ performance in maternal and child health services: a multistakeholder perspective from rural Indian setting
This study looked at what affects how well community health workers (CHWs) in rural Central India do their jobs in maternal and child health. Interviews and group discussions with CHWs and their supervisors showed that their performance is shaped by three main factors: community context (like transport and local attitudes), health system issues (like irregular pay and lack of … [Read more...] about In depth exploration of drivers of community health workers’ performance in maternal and child health services: a multistakeholder perspective from rural Indian setting
Feasibility and acceptability of task sharing collection of HIV viral load dried blood spot samples with community lay cadres in Zimbabwe
This study looked at whether trained community volunteers (called Community Lay Cadres or CLCs) in Zimbabwe can collect HIV viral load blood samples as well as healthcare workers (HCWs). Blood samples were taken from 374 people—one by a HCW and one by a CLC. The results matched 96% of the time. Most CLCs collected the samples correctly, and both the CLCs and clients felt … [Read more...] about Feasibility and acceptability of task sharing collection of HIV viral load dried blood spot samples with community lay cadres in Zimbabwe