Community health workers (CHWs) work with people experiencing barriers to care or limited access to health services. Sometimes, they are known as community health representatives, peer mentors, and patient navigators, promotores de salud, or lay health advisors.
CHWs are a valuable addition to any health care team and can help save money through their contributions. Many organizations now hire CHWs to expand their services and reach out to immigrant communities, people in rural areas, and families with low incomes where getting health care is challenging and expensive.
CHWs often act as a bridge between communities and health care services. For example, they work with immigrants in farming communities who don’t speak English. CHWs are a vital link, helping different groups get the necessary health and social services. These services can be preventive, like screenings and risk prevention for substance use and lifestyle changes. CHWs can also help manage ongoing or chronic conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure.
Where to Find Community Health Workers
Recruiting Internally
When choosing people for a CHW role, it's important to prioritize soft skills. Find individuals in your teams who are natural connectors, communicate well, and deeply understand your organization and the community you serve. These skills cannot be taught and are very valuable for your CHW team.
Recruiting Externally
There are several ways to find CHWs outside your organization. You can post the position on your website, share it within your network, contact a staffing agency, or connect with a training group.
The following methods may also help find a variety of candidates:
- Consider asking your partners for help since they may have a bigger network.
- Reach out to local agencies and other groups that employ CHWs. Some examples include churches, clinics, and local businesses that might know trusted local leaders. They may also be able to share your information within their community.