Sustaining Communities and Community Health Workers: Lessons Learned From Community Health Workers’ Experience During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Authors: Alexandra Coritsidis, Guedy Arniella, Timnit Berhane, Devin Madden, Jessica Ruiz, Nita Vangeepuram, Kristin Oliver

During the COVID-19 pandemic, community health workers (CHWs) were vital in sharing health information and helping communities. To understand how to keep them motivated, 21 CHWs in New York City took part in focus groups. They said they need better mental health support, fair pay that reflects their value, and ongoing training with chances to grow in their jobs. Supporting CHWs in these ways can improve their well-being and help them better serve their communities.