Trends in State Policies That Support the Community Health Worker Workforce

Authors: Megan D’Alessandro, Elinor Higgins, Sandra Wilkniss

States are working to sustain and expand the community health worker (CHW) workforce as federal COVID-19 funding ends. Many are exploring long-term financing solutions, particularly through Medicaid, to ensure continued access to CHW services. Policymakers are collaborating with CHWs and stakeholders to strengthen training, certification, and funding strategies. This NASHP’s updated 50-state tracker highlights these efforts, offering insights into state approaches to Medicaid reimbursement, workforce development, and policy advancements supporting CHWs.