What Is a Community Health Worker?

Community health workers (CHWs) are frontline public health workers who are an integral part of the health care system. They are members of the communities they serve and, while they are not professional health providers, they have the skills and knowledge necessary to act as vital liaisons between health and social service providers and the community. CHWs provide support and guidance to community members to empower them to make healthy choices and improve their well-being. They use their role to understand and respond to the unique health needs of their communities, providing care and support tailored to the specific needs and challenges of their community.

Key aspects of the role of CHWs include:

Building Relationships: CHWs establish deep trust and relationships within the communities they serve, making them effective in connecting individuals and families with the resources they need to stay healthy.

Cultural Competency: CHWs understand the cultural and linguistic nuances of their community, enabling them to provide culturally sensitive services that resonate with the community's values and beliefs.

Health Promotion: CHWs actively engage in health promotion activities, spreading awareness about healthy behaviors, disease prevention, and available services.

Resource Connection: CHWs are invaluable in linking community members with relevant resources such as healthcare services, social support, and community organizations.

Advocacy: CHWs advocate for the rights and health of their communities by identifying their needs and ensuring they are heard by policymakers, healthcare providers, and other stakeholders.

Education: CHWs provide health education to the community, focusing on topics such as disease prevention, nutrition, personal hygiene, and sanitation.

Support: CHWs provide emotional and practical support to individuals, especially during difficult times or health challenges.

The scope of work for CHWs can vary depending on the community and organization they work with, but their overarching goal is to improve the health and well-being of the communities they serve by ensuring access to quality care and resources. Their ability to bridge the gap between the healthcare system and the community makes CHWs essential in promoting healthy and equitable communities.