Community health workers generally have a close understanding of the community they serve. They also pose as a true bridge to understanding the needs their community faces far better than any outsider. Overall, they typically serve as the link between the community and the healthcare system. According to the World Health Organization, there has been a growing interest in training community health workers (CHWs) and if given adequate ongoing support, they can be the foundation of health systems.

Overall, they typically serve as the link between the community and the healthcare system.

Many times, health systems fail due to lack of access to care, lack of resources, and lack of knowledge of health professionals. In my 18+ years of working in the healthcare industry, I have found there are great benefits in obtaining increased knowledge and having a few more extra hands that are willing to help as opposed to working short staffed. It increases your performance level which enables you to provide good quality care which in turn, leads to a more healthy population. Community health workers have been found to be the key members of the health team by assisting in all of these areas of concern.

Community health workers are typically found working in underprivileged areas where there is a lack of resources; far away health facilities, lack access to quality healthcare, and have cultural or religious beliefs that may hinder the type of services that can be received. You also have to keep in mind that these workers merely volunteer their services and do not receive monetary compensation. I find this to be the most admirable thing one can do, having the desire to help without looking for something in return. The beauty of it all is the return investment in having a community that is empowered to get healthy and to stay healthy.

International Help’s ideal mission is to educate and empower local people to develop their own communities for health improvement. Through this initiative, community health workers are given the knowledge and the confidence they need to be a valuable asset in their communities. Working with International Help has been a great experience. It is so fulfilling to be associated with an organization that aims to be a part of lifelong change.

– Angela Nelson, MPH Intern, Liberty University