Overcoming Barriers: The Essential Role of Community Health Workers in Humanitarian Responses

Authors: Cora Pauline Nally

This thesis shows how community health workers (CHWs) play a vital role in keeping healthcare services running during crises like epidemics, natural disasters, and political instability. Through case studies from Sierra Leone and the Bahamas, it highlights how CHWs maintain care, build trust, and bridge gaps between communities and health systems. The research identifies key factors for strong CHW programs, including community involvement, close supervision, real-time data use, government collaboration, mental health support, and flexible supply chains. It argues that CHWs should be at the core of emergency health responses to create stronger, more resilient health systems.