This study looked at a new statewide model in Indiana that puts community health workers (CHWs) at the center of efforts to reduce health disparities and strengthen public health. Through focus groups across nine districts, CHWs and community partners proposed solutions like improving health literacy, expanding transportation, increasing access to care, and offering preventive … [Read more...] about Incorporating community-engaged research into a statewide community health worker-driven infrastructure for addressing health disparities in public health emergency
North America (U.S. and Canada)
Implementing a Community Health Worker Model to Address Health-Related Social Needs in a Community Pharmacy Network: A Pragmatic Evaluation
This study tested a program in New York where pharmacy staff were trained as community health workers to screen for social needs like food, housing, and transportation, and connect patients to support. Out of more than 1,000 people screened, nearly half of referrals were successfully resolved. The program also proved cost-effective, saving far more than it cost to run. The … [Read more...] about Implementing a Community Health Worker Model to Address Health-Related Social Needs in a Community Pharmacy Network: A Pragmatic Evaluation
Equity-Centered Development of a Community Health Worker Intervention to Improve Engagement in Care for ADHD
This study developed and tested a new program called START (SupporT for ADHD and Related Treatment), where community health workers support families of children recently diagnosed with ADHD. Eighteen families participated, and most reported high satisfaction, saying START made them more open to using medication, therapy, or school services. Families also showed increased … [Read more...] about Equity-Centered Development of a Community Health Worker Intervention to Improve Engagement in Care for ADHD
People Versus Product: Conditions for Success for Community Health Workers as Sustainable Members of the Public Health Workforce
This study looked at community health workers’ (CHWs) experiences during COVID-19 response efforts in Orange County, California. CHWs said their ability to connect with communities was valued, but their behind-the-scenes work often went unrecognized, and low pay and limited support made their jobs harder. They emphasized the need for fair compensation and proper recognition to … [Read more...] about People Versus Product: Conditions for Success for Community Health Workers as Sustainable Members of the Public Health Workforce
Community health worker interventions in diabetes and depression: meta-analysis
This review analyzed studies on whether community health workers (CHWs) help people with both diabetes and depression. Results showed that CHW support led to small improvements in depression and blood sugar levels, but the changes were not statistically significant. Even so, the evidence suggests CHWs can still benefit vulnerable groups by offering culturally tailored support … [Read more...] about Community health worker interventions in diabetes and depression: meta-analysis
