This review looked at studies from 25 countries to see if community health worker (CHW) programs are cost-effective in primary health care. Most of the 50 studies focused on specific diseases like maternal and child health, diabetes, tuberculosis, heart disease, mental health, and HIV. About 70% found that CHW programs were cost-effective, showing their value in both low- and … [Read more...] about The cost-effectiveness of community health workers in primary health care: a systematic review
CHW programs
Empowering Health Navigators and Communities
In Iowa, growing immigrant communities have highlighted health gaps, especially in rural and underserved areas. To address this, local residents were trained as community health navigators to offer health education and screenings in culturally appropriate ways. So far, over 35 navigators have reached more than 1,200 people in places like churches, mosques, and housing … [Read more...] about Empowering Health Navigators and Communities
Exploring Local Health Knowledge and Access: Focus Group Findings from Community Health Workers in Pader District, Uganda
This study explored the experiences of community health workers (CHWs) in Pader District, Northern Uganda, where many people still struggle to access healthcare after years of conflict and poverty. Through focus group discussions with 46 CHWs, malaria, maternal and child health issues, and rising chronic diseases emerged as top concerns. CHWs said their work is limited by long … [Read more...] about Exploring Local Health Knowledge and Access: Focus Group Findings from Community Health Workers in Pader District, Uganda
A realist perspective on optimizing community health workers’ roles and functions to deliver integrated people-centred care
This study explored how community health workers (CHWs) in rural South Africa deliver care that focuses on people’s needs. It found that trust, legitimacy, and motivation are key to helping CHWs connect with communities and coordinate services. These work best when CHWs have proper supervision, are part of the formal health system, and collaborate with other sectors. However, … [Read more...] about A realist perspective on optimizing community health workers’ roles and functions to deliver integrated people-centred care
Community Health Workers and the use of digital health: Transformations of a living work
This study looked at how digital tools, like mobile technology, are changing the work of Community Health Workers (CHWs) in primary healthcare. Interviews, focus groups, and observations showed that technology helps CHWs improve data collection, plan services, and reach more people. It also strengthens their role and recognition in the community. While technology is growing, … [Read more...] about Community Health Workers and the use of digital health: Transformations of a living work
