Authors: Collins Kamanzi, Eric Matsiko, Lawrence Rugema, Aline Umubyeyi, Lucy Kanya
Rwanda faced significant challenges in managing the COVID-19 pandemic, including strain on healthcare systems, lack of infrastructure, and disruptions to routine services. To address these issues, Rwanda introduced a home-based care model in September 2020, which involved training community health workers (CHWs) to manage mild COVID-19 cases and support pandemic response efforts. Engaging CHWs proved effective in reducing strain on the healthcare system by improving education, surveillance, and patient care, leading to a significant decrease in COVID-19 spread and healthcare burden. However, sustaining these efforts and addressing challenges such as inadequate training and resources are crucial for long-term effectiveness. Policy implications include ongoing CHW training, institutionalizing home-based care, involving the community, and providing protective equipment. This brief aims to provide insights for policymakers on leveraging CHWs in pandemic response, based on evidence from Rwanda’s experience with the home-based care model for COVID-19.
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Resource Topic: CHW
Resource Type: Review
Year: 2024
Region: Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA)
Country: Rwanda
Publisher May Restrict Access: No
