This paper reviews community health worker (CHW) programs in Bangladesh, India, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka, highlighting their roles in health education, community services, and maternal and child health. While CHWs have had successes, challenges remain. To improve CHW programs and achieve Universal Health Coverage, the paper suggests focusing on better integrating CHWs … [Read more...] about Strengthening primary health care through community health workers in South Asia
CHW programs
Optimizing the Community Health Worker (CHW) Program in Belize and Understanding its Unique Intermediary Position within the Health System: Perspective from the World Health Organization (WHO) Health Systems Approach
This study assessed Belize’s national community health worker (CHW) program, which has been crucial in improving population health since its launch in 1982. Using a qualitative approach, the research found that while the program has benefited from strategic health system changes and WHO guidelines, challenges remain in areas like funding, medication availability, and … [Read more...] about Optimizing the Community Health Worker (CHW) Program in Belize and Understanding its Unique Intermediary Position within the Health System: Perspective from the World Health Organization (WHO) Health Systems Approach
Commentary: Sustaining Community Health Workers-The Importance of Professional Self-Governance and Self-Determination
The community health worker (CHW) field in the U.S. has grown significantly, especially in the past 15 years. While this growth has brought more recognition and funding, it has also introduced challenges, such as attempts by various agencies to redefine CHW roles without proper input from CHWs themselves. This commentary stresses the importance of CHWs maintaining control over … [Read more...] about Commentary: Sustaining Community Health Workers-The Importance of Professional Self-Governance and Self-Determination
Sustainable financing of Community Health Worker employment: Key options for states to consider
The document explores various strategies for states to sustainably finance Community Health Worker (CHW) positions. It outlines key options for funding CHWs, including definitions, important considerations, and the advantages and limitations of each option. Real-life examples and resources are also provided, along with a summary table of the key options in the appendix. While … [Read more...] about Sustainable financing of Community Health Worker employment: Key options for states to consider
High-Impact Community Investments by Health Plans
Health plans are increasingly investing in programs that address the social factors affecting their members' health, especially through the use of community health workers (CHWs). This report by the Association of State and Territorial Health Officials (ASTHO) and CVS Health® highlights the positive impact of these investments on clinical outcomes. It shows that CHWs are … [Read more...] about High-Impact Community Investments by Health Plans