Community Health Worker programmes’ integration into national health systems: Scoping review

Authors: Lucia M Mupara, John J O Mogaka, William R Brieger, Joyce M Tsoka-Gwegweni

The aim of this review was to present evidence on CHW programs’ integration into National Health Systems for improved health outcomes in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Six CHW programs representing three SSA regions were purposely identified based on their deemed integration into respective National Health Systems. A scoping review on the identified programs was then conducted, and a total of forty-two publications met the inclusion criteria. Results from these publications showed some cross-country similarities; however, evidence of integration on most CHW program components varied across countries. Some CHW program components such as CHW recruitment, education and certification, service delivery, supervision, and equipment and supplies were integrated differently into the health systems of various countries. These findings demonstrate the complexity and diversity of practices associated with CHW program integration in the SSA region.