Why CHWs?
Community Health Workers (CHWs) are ordinary members of the community who work with the local healthcare system in both urban and rural environments. CHWs usually share ethnicity, language, socioeconomic status, and life experiences with the community members they serve. CHWs offer interpretation and translation services, and culturally appropriate health education and information. They also help people get the care they need, give informal counseling and guidance on health behaviors, advocate for individual and community health needs, and provide some direct services such as first aid, checking vital signs, and other health screening services. Since CHWs typically reside in the community they serve, they have the unique ability to bring information where it is needed most. They can reach community residents where they live, eat, play, work, and worship. CHWs are frontline agents of change, helping to reduce health disparities in underserved communities.
CHWs may perform the following roles:
- Create connections between vulnerable populations and healthcare providers
- Reduce social isolation among patients
- Ensure cultural competence among healthcare providers serving vulnerable populations
- Educate healthcare providers and stakeholders about community health needs
- Provide culturally appropriate health education on topics related to chronic disease prevention, physical activity, nutrition, etc
- Advocate for underserved individuals or communities to receive services and resources to address health needs
- Collect data and relay information to stakeholders to inform programs and policies
- Provide informal counseling, health screenings, and referrals
- Build community capacity to address health issues
- Address social determinants of health
Among the many known outcomes of CHWs’ service are the following:
- Improved access to health care services
- Increased health and screening
- Better linkage between community members and the health care system.
- Increased use of health care services
- Improved adherence to health recommendations
- Reduced need for emergency services
- Reduce risk of preventable diseases
- Reduce rates of preventable death
– Babongile B. Nkala, IHELP MPH Intern 2022
References
- https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/educational/healthdisp/role-of-community-health-workers
- Rural Health Information Hub (2022) available at: https://www.ruralhealthinfo.org/toolkits/community-health-workers/1/roles
In the face of global health challenges, community healthcare workers have emerged as frontline warriors, playing a vital role in promoting healthcare access and improving the well-being of communities worldwide. These dedicated individuals are the backbone of the healthcare system, bridging the gap between healthcare providers and underserved populations.
Let’s understand the essential role and functions of community healthcare workers and recognize their significant contributions to public health.
Role of Community Healthcare Workers
Community healthcare workers, also known as CHWs or lay health workers, serve as a link between healthcare providers and the communities they serve. They are trusted members of the community who have a deep understanding of the local culture, language and health needs. Their primary role is to promote and improve access to healthcare services, especially among vulnerable and marginalized populations. CHWs act as advocates, educators and mentors, empowering individuals to control their health and make informed decisions.
Read More: https://eurohealthleaders.com/role-and-functions-of-community-healthcare-workers/