Community-based palliative support: Rural Community Health Workers Transform Care Delivery

Authors: Erin Collins, MN RN CHPN ∙ Oralia Mendez, MPH CHW ∙ Sandi Phibbs, PhD MPH ∙ Seiko Izumi, PhD RN FPCN

This study in rural Oregon tested a training program that prepared community health workers to support people with serious illness and limited access to specialist care. Forty workers completed a 12-hour course covering topics like symptom management, care planning, and supporting families. After the training, they showed better understanding and greater confidence in helping patients and caregivers. They also reported using these skills in real situations, such as guiding families through care decisions and offering support during illness and grief. Overall, the training helped community health workers take on a stronger role in supporting serious illness care in areas where specialist services are scarce.