This study explored the experiences of Community Health Workers (CHWs) in Wisconsin, USA, including their roles, how they work with healthcare systems, and the challenges they face. The 40 CHWs surveyed and interviewed provided health education, referrals, advocacy, and support to help people access health and social services. Although most felt their work had a strong impact … [Read more...] about Community Health Workers’ Roles and Challenges in Wisconsin: A Mixed-Methods Study
North America (U.S. and Canada)
Enhancing Community Health Worker Communication: Evaluating Simulation-Based Training in Motivational Interviewing
This study looked at whether simulation-based training could improve community health workers’ communication skills. A total of 277 trainees took part in a one-day session using lessons and realistic role-play on topics such as vaccine confidence, smoking, and childhood obesity. After the training, workers felt more confident talking with people who had different views, using … [Read more...] about Enhancing Community Health Worker Communication: Evaluating Simulation-Based Training in Motivational Interviewing
Importing What Works: A Territory-Based Community Health Worker Framework from Brazil’s ESF for U.S. Federally Qualified Health Centers Serving Underserved Populations
This policy analysis looks at Brazil’s community health worker model and how it could be adapted for federally qualified health centers in the United States. Brazil’s approach uses community health workers to regularly support people within specific communities, helping prevent health problems and unnecessary hospital visits. The study suggests that a similar approach could … [Read more...] about Importing What Works: A Territory-Based Community Health Worker Framework from Brazil’s ESF for U.S. Federally Qualified Health Centers Serving Underserved Populations
Creating connections from clinic to the community and beyond: Integrating community health workers into pediatric behavioral health care
This article explains how Community Health Workers (CHWs) can help children and families access mental health services by addressing challenges such as transportation, housing, and food insecurity. Because CHWs are trusted members of their communities, they can help families navigate healthcare, connect with services, and overcome barriers that may prevent children from … [Read more...] about Creating connections from clinic to the community and beyond: Integrating community health workers into pediatric behavioral health care
Co-designing education with and for community health workers: creating a bridge to care
This paper describes an initiative in Ontario, Canada, that aimed to improve education and career opportunities for Community Health Workers (CHWs). Because CHWs have strong knowledge of their communities and help people overcome barriers to healthcare, the Bridge to Care Initiative worked with CHWs and other partners to develop training that reflects their role in healthcare. … [Read more...] about Co-designing education with and for community health workers: creating a bridge to care