This study looked at the working conditions of community health workers in India and how the health system relies on them. It found that these workers often have many responsibilities but little power, face low and unstable pay, and are closely monitored. These conditions limit their ability to make decisions or push back, even as they play a key role in keeping the health … [Read more...] about Power, surveillance, and the limits of resistance: The role of community health workers in India’s health system
Traditional or Modern Contraception? Association Between Health Worker Contact and Contraceptive Choice in India: Findings From NFHS 2019-2021
This study looked at how contact with community health workers affects women’s use of family planning methods in India. It found that when women talk with community health workers, they are more likely to use both traditional and modern methods, switch between methods, and use them more consistently. The study shows that community health workers play an important role in … [Read more...] about Traditional or Modern Contraception? Association Between Health Worker Contact and Contraceptive Choice in India: Findings From NFHS 2019-2021
Community and health systems learning: critical realist evaluation of the VAPAR ‘learning platform’ in rural South Africa 2015-25
This study looked at a program in rural South Africa that brought communities, health workers, and decision-makers together to learn and solve health problems. Over time, it helped build trust, improve teamwork, and strengthen the role of community health workers, making health services more responsive to local needs. The approach became part of the health system and adapted to … [Read more...] about Community and health systems learning: critical realist evaluation of the VAPAR ‘learning platform’ in rural South Africa 2015-25
Long-term cost-effectiveness of a mobile health intervention delivered by clinical pharmacists and community health workers for type 2 diabetes management in urban African American and Latinx populations
This study looked at a program where community health workers and pharmacists used mobile tools to help people manage diabetes. It found that the program improved health over time and reduced overall healthcare costs compared to usual care, especially in the long term. The results suggest that this team-based approach can both improve patient outcomes and save money. … [Read more...] about Long-term cost-effectiveness of a mobile health intervention delivered by clinical pharmacists and community health workers for type 2 diabetes management in urban African American and Latinx populations
Altruism or Exploitation? Rethinking the Ethics of Unpaid Lay Community Health Workers in Sub- Saharan Africa. The Case of Zambia
This study looked at whether community health workers in Zambia are being treated fairly when they are not paid. It found that many continue to work out of a strong desire to help their communities, even with little or irregular pay and limited resources. However, the study argues that this situation can still be unfair and that these workers should be properly paid to … [Read more...] about Altruism or Exploitation? Rethinking the Ethics of Unpaid Lay Community Health Workers in Sub- Saharan Africa. The Case of Zambia