A Case Study of CHW Integration in Two Health Departments in Southern Arizona

Authors: Maia Ingram, Andi Medrano, Dolores Encinas, Lee Itule-Klasen, Gloria Coronado, Maria Esparza, Rodrigo Valenzuela Cordova, Jax Seline, Raleigh C Addington, Ada M Wilkinson-Lee

This study looked at how community health workers (CHWs) are involved in two local health departments. CHWs help build trust, provide services, raise community concerns, and address social issues. However, challenges like hiring rules, low pay, limited understanding of their role, and lack of long-term funding make their work harder. The study highlights what is needed to better support and fully include CHWs in local health systems.