Community health worker roles in intervention delivery: a scoping review of heart disease and stroke prevention trials in the United States

Authors: Imama A. Naqvi, Clare C. Bassile, S. Reza Ebadi, Dakembay E. Hoyte, Lauren N. Paguirigan, Juan Meyreles, Glenn McMillan, Ian M. Kronish, Olajide A. Williams

This review looked at 24 studies in the US to understand how community health workers (CHWs) help prevent heart disease and stroke. It found that CHWs play a key role in helping people adopt healthier habits, especially in underserved communities. They educate, coach, and support patients to stay active and take their medication. However, their training and involvement in research vary widely, and they are rarely recognized for their contributions. The review suggests setting clear roles, improving training, and building stronger partnerships between communities and researchers to make CHW programs more effective.