A cross-sectional survey of community health workers and their roles in Indiana

Authors: Michael Scanlon, Melissa R Thomas, Qing Tang, Jasmine D Gonzalvo, Yumary Ruiz, Margarita Hart, Jasmine Jackson, Debra K Litzelman

This study surveyed 282 community health workers (CHWs) in Indiana to better understand their roles, backgrounds, and work conditions. Most CHWs were women, with diverse racial and ethnic representation. Many had college degrees, and one in five spoke more than one language. While most worked full-time and had completed training, their job titles and duties varied. CHWs were most involved in communication, care coordination, coaching, and providing social support. Lower salaries were linked to having less education and less than a year of experience. These findings can help guide future planning and support for the CHW workforce.