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
CHW programs
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
Community Health Workers in Brazil
Brazil's Community Health Workers (CHWs) have played a vital role in connecting most Brazilians with primary healthcare, significantly reducing socioeconomic and geographic health disparities. Brazilian CHWs handle a wide range of duties, including health education, monitoring, and referrals, and address social determinants of health by helping families access other government … [Read more...] about Community Health Workers in Brazil
Unheard Voices: Lady Health Workers in Lahore’s Peripheral Communities
This study examines challenges faced by Lady Health Workers (LHWs) in delivering healthcare in Lahore's low-income communities, including during the COVID-19 pandemic. Through qualitative methods involving 31 LHWs and interviews with government officials and experts, it identifies institutional issues like overwork and resource scarcity, community barriers such as mobility … [Read more...] about Unheard Voices: Lady Health Workers in Lahore’s Peripheral Communities
Community health worker perspectives examining current responsibilities and strategies for success
Community health worker (CHW) interventions have proven effective globally, especially highlighted during the COVID-19 pandemic for their frontline support in prevention and healthcare delivery. This study in Chicago explores experienced CHWs' perspectives on their roles and success strategies. Interviews conducted between January and April 2022 revealed key themes: CHWs … [Read more...] about Community health worker perspectives examining current responsibilities and strategies for success