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Labour conditions in dual-cadre community health worker programmes: a systematic review.

by

Authors: Madeleine Ballard, Abimbola Olaniran, M Matías Iberico, Ash Rogers, Aradhana Thapa

Community health workers, mainly women, play a vital role in improving health outcomes and equity, offering a good return on investment. However, many are unpaid, especially in the Africa region where over 80% are not salaried. Some countries use dual-cadre systems, combining paid and unpaid workers, to address health workers shortages. While volunteering can be positive, without safeguards, this approach may replicate exploitative labor conditions seen in all-volunteer programs. Through systematic review, this study aimed to determine the presence, prevalence, and magnitude of exploitation in national dual-cadre programmes. It highlights the need for fair compensation and safeguards in community health worker programs.

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Resource Topic: CHW programs

Resource Type: Review

Year: 2023

Region: Global

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Publisher May Restrict Access: No

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