“To Get the Patient the Best Care”: A Qualitative Analysis of Community Health Worker Integration in North Carolina Federally Qualified Health Centers

Authors: Amy Kryston, Emma J Boyce, Melinda Gomez, Nicolle Miller, Devin T Worster

This study found that community health workers improve patient care by helping people manage chronic diseases, connect with needed services, and stay engaged in their healthcare. Successful integration of community health workers into health centers depends on clear role definitions, supportive leadership, good communication, training, and involving community health workers in planning how care is delivered. The study recommends creating supportive work environments that allow community health workers to work closely with healthcare teams and fully use their skills.