Authors: Hlologelo Malatji, Frances Griffiths, Jane Goudge
This study examined the working conditions of Community Health Workers (CHWs) in South Africa and their efforts to improve their situation. CHWs faced challenges like low pay and lack of resources. In semi-urban areas, they formed a task team and joined a union to negotiate for better conditions, leading to a pay increase. Rural CHWs faced obstacles in organizing due to fear of reprisal. The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the importance of CHWs, prompting some improvements in their conditions. To enhance CHW motivation and performance, it is crucial to integrate them fully into the healthcare system, provide fair pay and benefits, and support their right to unionize. Future research should assess post-pandemic changes in CHW conditions.
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Resource Topic: CHW Payment, CHW Retention, CHW programs
Resource Type: Qualitative
Year: 2024
Region: Africa
Country: South Africa
Publisher May Restrict Access: No