This study explored the key skills and abilities that community health workers (CHWs) in Georgia need to be effective. Through surveys, focus groups, and interviews, it found that communication, advocacy, outreach, and relationship building are the most important competencies for CHWs. However, challenges like limited resources, trust issues with clients, low pay, and high … [Read more...] about Georgia’s Community Health Workers: An Investigation Into Core Competencies
CHW programs
Designing with Community Health Workers in Latin America
This project focuses on designing a mobile app for community health workers (CHWs) in rural and remote areas of Peru to screen older adults for dementia. CHWs play a vital role in Peru’s healthcare system, bridging gaps due to limited resources. The app helps evaluate cognitive and functional abilities of older adults. The design aims to keep CHWs motivated, as they often work … [Read more...] about Designing with Community Health Workers in Latin America
Strengthening primary health care through community health workers in South Asia
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
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