This study explored the roles of traditional birth attendants (TBAs) in Somaliland. Historically, TBAs handled pregnancy, childbirth, and harmful practices like female genital mutilation. Today, their role has shifted. They act as trusted links between communities and formal healthcare, helping women access professional maternal and reproductive services. Using TBAs in this way … [Read more...] about Unlocking the potential of traditional birth attendants in Somaliland: a qualitative study on healthcare system integration
Improving Mental Health Knowledge Among Brazilian Community Health Agents in a Training Program for a Self-Reported Mental Health Assessment
This study tested a mental health training program for 24 Community Health Agents (CHAs) in Brazil using the interRAI SAMH tool. After the training, CHAs showed improved knowledge of mental health topics, including depression, anxiety, psychoses, and suicide risk. They also felt more confident identifying and referring people with mental health issues. The results show that the … [Read more...] about Improving Mental Health Knowledge Among Brazilian Community Health Agents in a Training Program for a Self-Reported Mental Health Assessment
Supporting the Community’s Health Advocates: Initial Insights into the Implementation of a Dual-Purpose Educational and Supportive Group for Community Health Workers
The Lunch and Learn program in Maryland supports community health workers (CHWs) through virtual education and peer connection. Launched in 2023, it offered twice-monthly online sessions with expert talks, Q&A, and peer-support time. Over the first year, participation grew, and CHWs reported that the program helped both their learning and well-being. This approach shows … [Read more...] about Supporting the Community’s Health Advocates: Initial Insights into the Implementation of a Dual-Purpose Educational and Supportive Group for Community Health Workers
Coexisting traditional and biomedical healthcare systems: a mixed-methods analysis of community health workers and traditional birth attendants’ contributions to perinatal health behaviors in rural India
This study looked at how community health workers (ASHAs) and traditional birth attendants (Dais) influence maternal and newborn care in rural Bihar, India. ASHAs mainly supported mothers during pregnancy and labor, helping increase antenatal visits and institutional deliveries. Dais had more influence after birth, promoting traditional practices like newborn massage. When both … [Read more...] about Coexisting traditional and biomedical healthcare systems: a mixed-methods analysis of community health workers and traditional birth attendants’ contributions to perinatal health behaviors in rural India
Enhancing Public Knowledge of Risk Factors and Warning Signs for Stroke and Heart Attack Through Home-Based Community Health Worker Interventions: A Cluster Randomized Trial
This study tested whether home visits by community health workers could improve people’s understanding of stroke and heart attack in rural Tanzania. Over one year, people who received regular home education learned more about risk factors and warning signs than those who received usual care. The results show that community health workers can effectively improve knowledge that … [Read more...] about Enhancing Public Knowledge of Risk Factors and Warning Signs for Stroke and Heart Attack Through Home-Based Community Health Worker Interventions: A Cluster Randomized Trial