CHCS: Expanding Access to Community Health Workers in Rural Communities

Through the federal Rural Health Transformation Program, many states are preparing to invest in community health worker (CHW) workforce initiatives to strengthen rural health systems and expand access to essential services. CHWs are trusted, non-clinical health professionals who draw on their lived experience and community relationships to provide health education, care navigation, and social and emotional support. Strong evidence demonstrates the impact of CHWs in improving health and social outcomes, including access to primary care services, leading to more CHWs being integrated into interdisciplinary teams within health systems, clinics, community-based organizations, and health plans.

This webinar, a product of the Center for Health Care Strategies’ (CHCS) Evidence-to-Action Hub, will feature CHW programs in Oregon, Tennessee, and Virginia, to highlight lessons on expanding access to CHW services in rural communities. Speakers will discuss strategies for supporting these programs, including considerations for program design; training, certification, and accreditation; and engagement with CHWs and key stakeholders.