In Malawi, where the majority of the population resides in rural areas, community health workers (CHWs) are the first, and often only, providers of health services. A pilot project, implemented in 2 rural districts of Malawi between 2010 and 2011, introduced a mobile phone system to strengthen knowledge exchange within networks of CHWs and district staff. To evaluate the … [Read more...] about Taking knowledge for health the extra mile: participatory evaluation of a mobile phone intervention for community health workers in Malawi
CHW Role
Cell phones and CHWs: a transformational marriage?
Community health workers (CHWs) have a key role to play if we are to achieve our ambitious goals to reduce child and maternal mortality globally. A wide diversity of CHW cadres have been established in many countries, both in the public sector and with nongovernmental organizations, yet several major challenges have emerged. Mobile phones can be transformative for community … [Read more...] about Cell phones and CHWs: a transformational marriage?
A mental health training program for community health workers in India: impact on knowledge and attitudes
Unmet needs for mental health treatment in low income countries are pervasive. If mental health is to be effectively integrated into primary health care in low income countries like India then grass-roots workers need to acquire relevant knowledge and skills to be able to recognise, refer and support people experiencing mental disorders in their own communities. This study aims … [Read more...] about A mental health training program for community health workers in India: impact on knowledge and attitudes
Working with Community Health Workers as ‘volunteers’ in a vaccine trial: Practical and ethical experiences and implications
Community engagement is increasingly emphasized in biomedical research, as a right in itself, and to strengthen ethical practice. We draw on interviews and observations to consider the practical and ethical implications of involving Community Health Workers (CHWs) as part of a community engagement strategy for a vaccine trial on the Kenyan Coast. CHWs were initially engaged as … [Read more...] about Working with Community Health Workers as ‘volunteers’ in a vaccine trial: Practical and ethical experiences and implications
Diabetes is a Community Issue: The Critical Elements of a Successful Outreach and Education Model on the U.S.-Mexico Border
Diabetes is reaching epidemic proportions on the U.S.-Mexico Border, and culturally competent diabetes education is not available in many communities. People with diabetes often do not have access to regular medical care, cannot afford medication, and lack the community infrastructure that supports self-management practices. Self-management education and support have great … [Read more...] about Diabetes is a Community Issue: The Critical Elements of a Successful Outreach and Education Model on the U.S.-Mexico Border
