HIV infection can go undetected in certain populations of Malawi, increasing disease-burden and continued transmission. Researchers conducted a study to assess the effectiveness and safety of community-led delivery of HIV self-testing (HIVST) to increase antiretroviral therapy (ART) initiation. The authors found that community-led HIVST was a safe and cost effective way to … [Read more...] about Effect of community-led delivery of HIV self-testing on HIV testing and antiretroviral therapy initiation in Malawi: A cluster-randomised trial
Assessing selection procedures and roles of Community Health Volunteers and Community Health Management Committees in Ghana’s Community-based Health Planning and Services program
In Ghana, community health volunteers (CHVs) and community health management committees (CHMCs) are essential to providing health care and fostering a sense of community ownership. This study sought to understand the criteria used to select these crucial community-based providers. The authors found that selection processes for CHVs and CHMCs vary widely; they suggest … [Read more...] about Assessing selection procedures and roles of Community Health Volunteers and Community Health Management Committees in Ghana’s Community-based Health Planning and Services program
Health policy and system support to optimize CHW programmes for HIV, TB and Malaria services: an evidence guide
Tuberculosis (TB), HIV, and malaria remain endemic in many countries worldwide. The WHO has developed an evidence guide for engaging CHWs to combat poverty and social access barriers that prevent continued progress in health outcomes related to these diseases. This guide includes evidence-based CHW program planning, implementation, and evaluation resources to advance health … [Read more...] about Health policy and system support to optimize CHW programmes for HIV, TB and Malaria services: an evidence guide
The role of community health workers in COVID-19 vaccination: Implementation and support guide
The WHO developed a guide to support governments with essential vaccine distribution efforts to combat the global COVID-19 epidemic. They emphasize the crucial role of community health workers (CHWs) in distributing vaccines and recommend the following for utilizing CHWs in vaccine distribution efforts: (1) CHWs be involved at every stage of the distribution process; (2) CHWs … [Read more...] about The role of community health workers in COVID-19 vaccination: Implementation and support guide
Gender intentional approaches to enhance health social enterprises in Africa: a qualitative study of constraints and strategies
Although efforts to reach gender equality can improve health outcomes, research is lacking as to what specific gender barriers exist that perpetuate substandard health outcomes. This qualitative study set out to identify specific gender barriers that create obstacles to achieving improved health in Africa. Researchers found that female community health workers face gender based … [Read more...] about Gender intentional approaches to enhance health social enterprises in Africa: a qualitative study of constraints and strategies