This systematic review sought to investigate how primary health care (PHC) principles in CHW programs impact health outcomes in low- and middle-income countries. Four PHC principles were included in the review: universal health care, community participation, intersectoral coordination, and appropriateness of services. Authors screened 281 papers, and included 26 for review. … [Read more...] about Application of primary healthcare principles in national community health worker programmes in low-income and middle-income countries: a scoping review
Brazil
The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic in the frontline health workforce: Perceptions of vulnerability of Brazil’s community health workers
This paper describes the further integration of CHWs into the healthcare system in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. The authors argue that CHWs are in a unique position to address social determinants of health, but are also vulnerable to infections, abuse, and other workplace hazards. They demonstrate how these issues have been exacerbated by the pandemic, and conclude … [Read more...] about The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic in the frontline health workforce: Perceptions of vulnerability of Brazil’s community health workers
Community Health Worker Impact on Knowledge, Antenatal Care, And Birth Outcomes: A Systematic Review
CHW interventions have been associated with improved birth outcomes. Through a systematic review, the authors of this study explore the relationship between birth outcomes and patient health knowledge and attitudes. The review suggests that CHW interventions have increased antenatal care utilization, enhanced knowledge of pregnancy-related danger signs, and contributed to … [Read more...] about Community Health Worker Impact on Knowledge, Antenatal Care, And Birth Outcomes: A Systematic Review
Financing Alliance for Health Country Case Study: Brazil
Financing Alliance for Health has produced a series of country case studies providing robust information on community health system profiles, taking a financing lens. Each case study includes insights on community health system context, structure and lessons on financing. The government of Brazil has worked to enshrine public health spending in their constitution since 2000. … [Read more...] about Financing Alliance for Health Country Case Study: Brazil
Compensation models for community health workers: Comparison of legal frameworks across five countries
Despite the life-saving work CHWs perform, they have long been subject to global debate about their remuneration. Donors and officials in many countries believe that CHW salaries are not ‘sustainable’ or that remunerating CHWs might pollute their intrinsic motivations. However, there is now consensus that CHWs should be paid appropriately. This study examines the legal … [Read more...] about Compensation models for community health workers: Comparison of legal frameworks across five countries
