The Evolution, Expansion, and Effectiveness of Community Health Workers

Authors: Randall R. Bovbjerg, Lauren Eyster, Barbara A. Ormond, Theresa Anderson, Elizabeth Richardson

In the past decade, the community health worker (CHW) profession in the United States has increased its visibility, but its potential contributions remain underappreciated and more permanent financing is elusive. This paper describes the current state of knowledge about how and where CHWs can contribute effectively, where barriers inhibit efficient deployment of CHWs, and what business models could support change. Observations come from literature reviews, key stakeholder interviews, case studies of CHW initiatives, and a convening of practitioners, employers, advocates, policymakers, and other experts.