Authors: Molly Knowles, Aidan P Crowley, Aditi Vasan, Shreya Kangovi
The purpose of this review was to (i) provide a history of CHW integration within healthcare in the U.S.A, (ii) describe evidence of the impact of CHW programs on population health, experience, costs of care, and health equity, and (iii) identify considerations for CHW program expansion in the U.S. context. This paper builds on a 2014 review, providing an updated summary of the evidence base Drawing on this evidence, authors provide recommendations for the best practices for CHWs, including selection of CHWs based on membership in the community served; combining theoretical and practical training; adopting supportive supervision practices; providing financial compensation, clear scope of work, and pathways for career progression; integrating with primary health care teams and services; and supporting CHWs in engaging communities. While this article highlights the significant impact CHWs have had on the health outcomes of their communities, it also provides evidence on translating best practices related to intervention structure, supervision, and training to help ensure that CHWs are supported in their roles and are able to exercise the full extent of their capabilities. These findings also emphasize the importance of expanding the workforce and integration of CHWs more fully into health care teams.
Link: Community Health Worker Integration with and Effectiveness in Health Care and Public Health in the United States
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Resource Topic: CHW, Integration
Resource Type: Review
Year: 2023
Region: North America (U.S. and Canada)
Country: United States of America
Publisher May Restrict Access: No