Community Health Workers

About the Role

Community Health Workers (CHWs) serve as a bridge between healthcare providers and the community, focusing on promoting health and improving healthcare access.

Other Common Titles

Health Educator
Patient Navigator
Community Health Advocate
Outreach Worker
Public Health Worker

Typical Tasks

Educate community members about health issues and preventive measures.
Assist individuals in navigating healthcare services and resources.
Facilitate health screenings and wellness programs.
Conduct outreach activities to raise awareness about health paths and services.
Collect data on community health trends and needs.
Advocate for health policy changes at local, state, or national levels.
Provide support and information for chronic disease management.

Notable People

Miriam J. Laugesen – A prominent researcher in health policy and community health workforce development.
A. S. K. Akinwunmi – Known for advocacy work in community health and access to healthcare in underprivileged areas.

Recommended Resources

Community Health Workers: A Strategy for Improving Health Outcomes
A comprehensive guide covering the roles, challenges, and impact of community health workers in improving public health.
CDC Community Health Worker Resources
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's resources on community health workers, including definitions, roles, and frameworks.
Community Health Workers in Action: A Podcast
A podcast that discusses various community health initiatives and the impact of CHWs.
The Future of Community Health Workers
A blog dedicated to discussing the evolving role of community health workers and strategies for future success.