Community Health Workers (CHWs) are trusted members of the communities they serve, acting as vital links between healthcare services and the community. They improve access, quality, and cultural competency of care, leading to better health outcomes. Recognized as health professionals under the Affordable Care Act, CHWs work under various titles and have a strong track record of … [Read more...] about Hiring Practices that Support State Integration of Community Health Workers
CHW programs
The Role of State and Territorial Health Agencies in Supporting and Hiring Community Health Workers
As communities in the U.S. face barriers to accessing healthcare—like distance, limited medical staff, and social challenges—community health workers (CHWs) are vital. They build trust, help clients navigate services, and empower communities to advocate for themselves. With healthcare access shrinking, public health agencies should partner with CHWs, who have a strong track … [Read more...] about The Role of State and Territorial Health Agencies in Supporting and Hiring Community Health Workers
Investing in Community Health Workers Is Vital to Population Health
In this podcast "Investing in Community Health Workers Is Vital to Population Health," experts discuss the important role of Community Health Workers (CHWs) as trusted public health professionals who connect with their communities through shared experiences and compassion. Despite evidence of their value, funding and sustainability for CHW positions remain challenging. The … [Read more...] about Investing in Community Health Workers Is Vital to Population Health
Exploring Community Health Workers: From Inception to Addressing Healthcare Disparities, Medical Mistrust, and Culturally Competent Care
This review examines the importance of community health in reducing health disparities and promoting equity. It highlights the role of community health workers (CHWs) in reaching marginalized populations and addressing social determinants of health. Key principles include multi-sector collaboration, evidence-based strategies, community engagement, and ongoing evaluation. The … [Read more...] about Exploring Community Health Workers: From Inception to Addressing Healthcare Disparities, Medical Mistrust, and Culturally Competent Care
The Investment Case for Strengthening Primary Healthcare and Community Health Worker Programs in Low- and Lower-Middle-Income Countries
Universal health coverage is achievable for even the poorest countries if they focus on expanding their primary healthcare (PHC) systems, which includes strong community outreach. Investing in PHC is cost-effective and can save millions of lives each year. However, many low- and middle-income countries prioritize funding for hospitals and specialized care over PHC, leading to … [Read more...] about The Investment Case for Strengthening Primary Healthcare and Community Health Worker Programs in Low- and Lower-Middle-Income Countries