Community health workers (CHWs) are vital in improving health in low- and middle-income countries like South Africa. The Bukhali project, a trial aimed at supporting young women in Soweto, involves CHWs delivering preconception and pregnancy care. This study explored the challenges and successes of implementing Bukhali from the CHWs' perspectives. Through focus group … [Read more...] about A qualitative analysis of community health worker perspectives on the implementation of the preconception and pregnancy phases of the Bukhali randomised controlled trial
South Africa
Enablers and barriers for task sharing of mental health care from nurses to community health workers: A scoping review
The World Health Organization and South Africa’s Mental Health Care Act promote providing mental health services in communities by involving community health workers (CHWs). This study reviewed literature to find out what helps or hinders this approach. Out of 15 articles reviewed, 9 met the criteria. It found that challenges include insufficient training, stigma, family … [Read more...] about Enablers and barriers for task sharing of mental health care from nurses to community health workers: A scoping review
Evaluating counseling skills of community health workers for pregnant adolescents in Limpopo province
This study evaluated the counseling skills of Community Health Workers (CHWs) who support pregnant adolescents in Limpopo province, South Africa. Using a questionnaire and data from 81 CHWs, the study found that there were significant differences in how CHWs approached various stages of counseling, such as preparation, introduction, working phase, and termination. Many CHWs … [Read more...] about Evaluating counseling skills of community health workers for pregnant adolescents in Limpopo province
Development of a framework for community health workers to contribute to interprofessional learning teams
The study aimed to create a framework to help Community Health Workers (CHWs) effectively join and support interprofessional teams working on diabetes care in South African rural communities. Using a theory-based approach and input from various discussions and reviews, a draft framework was developed and validated by experts. The final framework focuses on equipping CHWs with … [Read more...] about Development of a framework for community health workers to contribute to interprofessional learning teams
From the periphery to inclusion within the health system: promoting community health worker empowerment as a way forward
This study explores the role of community health workers (CHWs) in achieving universal health coverage, focusing on their integration and empowerment within the healthcare system. Conducted in rural South Africa, the research analyzed data from a project evaluating supportive supervision for CHWs. The study found that CHWs often operate on the fringes of the healthcare system, … [Read more...] about From the periphery to inclusion within the health system: promoting community health worker empowerment as a way forward