CHW programs

Psychometric properties of MERIT: A concise tool for community health workers to screen priority mental disorders

This study developed and tested a simple screening tool called MERIT to help community health workers in India identify common mental health problems. The tool covers issues like substance use, anxiety, depression, severe mental illness, and suicide risk, and can be used quickly by asking one person in a household. Results showed that the tool is reliable and accurate in most … [Read more...] about Psychometric properties of MERIT: A concise tool for community health workers to screen priority mental disorders

This study looked at whether a program led by community health workers could help people control high blood pressure in Rwanda and whether it was worth the cost. The program included home visits, health education, and support for monitoring blood pressure. Patients in the program had clear improvements in their blood pressure compared to those receiving usual care, although the … [Read more...] about Cost-Effectiveness of a Community Health Workers-Led Multicomponent Hypertension Intervention in Selected Health Centers in Rwanda: 12-Month Trial- Based Analysis from a Health Care System Perspective

This study looked at how a community health worker–led mental health program helps people with depression and anxiety. The program included training in mindfulness and encouraged people to take an active role in managing their mental health. Among over 1,000 participants, the results showed that improvements were mainly linked to increased mindfulness and confidence in managing … [Read more...] about Examining theoretical mediators in a culturally adapted, community health worker-led intervention for depression and anxiety.

This study explored how community health workers help build trust between patients and healthcare providers. Through group discussions with workers from rural health centers in California, the study found that trust is affected by power differences between providers and patients, the quality of communication, and respect for patients’ culture and language. Community health … [Read more...] about Community Health Worker Perspectives on Building Patient-Provider Trust in Rural Communities of the San Joaquin Valley, California: A Qualitative Study

This study examined whether community health workers could help people with type 2 diabetes become more physically active in the Brazilian Amazon. Trained workers visited participants at home six times over six months and encouraged lifestyle changes, including regular physical activity. While overall activity levels did not increase greatly, the program helped many previously … [Read more...] about Effect of a Community Health Worker-Led Intervention on Physical Activity in Adults with Type 2 Diabetes in Primary Health Care in the Brazilian Amazon