Community Health Workers – Healthcare Workforce Partnership

🫂Community Health Workers

Community Health Workers (CHWs) are a critical component of healthcare in Western Massachusetts. Their role is growing in importance as the healthcare system increasingly emphasizes wellness, preventative care, and health equity. CHWs promote full and equal access to health and social services, working at the grassroots level to support individuals, families, and communities.

🔍 What Community Health Workers Do

Keep individuals and communities healthier by providing education on preventative care and wellness.
Improve access to primary care services through community-based outreach, health screenings, and health promotion programs.
Identify and address community health needs, eliminating health disparities through advocacy and support.
Help patients and families navigate the healthcare system, serving as a bridge between the community and providers.
Collaborate directly with nurses, physicians, care managers, and social service professionals.

🏥 Where Community Health Workers Work

Primary care practices and health centers
Community-based organizations
Faith-based organizations
Human service agencies

Job titles for community health workers may include: Case Coordinator, Community Health Advisor, Outreach Educator, Patient Navigator, Promotor(a) de Salud, Home Visitor, Prevention Coordinator, and Youth Worker.

🎓 Education and Training Requirements

Education and training requirements vary by employer. Most CHWs receive on-the-job training. Massachusetts is developing a statewide certification program for Community Health Workers, which will shape future hiring standards and career pathways.

🧠Skills and Qualities for Success

Deep understanding of the communities they serve
Strong cultural competence and respect for diversity
Knowledge of local and regional healthcare systems
Effective documentation, communication, and organizational skills
Ability to build trust, educate, and advocate on behalf of patients and communities

🔗Professional Resources

📈Related Career Pathways

Behavioral Health Technician

Community health workers are a critical component of healthcare in Western Massachusetts, and their role is evolving as the focus on wellness and preventative care increases. A community health worker promotes full and equal access to health and social services in the community he or she serves. A community health worker helps healthcare organizations implement programs to promote, maintain, and improve individual and community health.

Updated: May 21, 2025