CHW National Library

An assessment report by the CDC that is intended to inform about the strengths and limitations of evidence bases for individual components of chronic disease policy interventions. This particular report examines 14 CHW policy components, some of which are elements of successful CHW programs, so as to direct policy development.

A report published by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health. Highlights a number of ways healthcare providers and payer organizations can benefit from integrating CHWs into their teams to improve quality outcomes while reducing costs.

A study by the Health Resources and Services Administration. Describes a comprehensive national study of the CHW workforce and of the factors that have affected its utilization and development.

An article from the American Journal of Public Health. Explores the role of CHW as social justice and policy advocates because of their focus on reducing racial and ethnic health disparities in underserved communities, and because of their potential to influence advocates and policymakers.

This policy statement by the American Public Health Association is an update to an earlier statement (2001). Articulates challenges to CHW workforce development, incorporates lessons learned in the years since the original statement, and confirms many of the 2001 statement recommendations

An issue brief from the National Health Policy Forum. Examines CHW roles and duties, how CHW are trained, ways to incorporate CHW into mainstream health care, and the challenges to developing the CHW profession further.

An article from the New England Journal of Medicine. Explores the role of CHW and their contribution to improved health outcomes, reduced health care costs, and job creation.

A report by Harvard Law School, Center for Health Law & Policy Innovation. Overview of the three ways the Affordable Care Act has enhanced the role and opportunities for CHW in the U.S. healthcare system. As a result of these opportunities, states are choosing to implement CHW to: (1) provide increased Medicaid preventative health services, (2) create Medicaid “Health Homes” for beneficiaries living with chronic illness, and (3) improve health outcomes and quality of care while slowing growth in health costs through increased funding for State Innovation Models.

A report by Harvard Law School, Center for Health Law & Policy Innovation. Exploration of approaches states have taken to support and regulate CHW.

A CDC Division for Heart Disease and Stroke Prevention-published policy brief. Provides guidance and resources for integrating CHW into community-based efforts to prevent chronic disease. Provides general information on CHW in the U.S., then details the value and impact of CHW in preventing and managing a variety of chronic diseases, including heart disease and stroke, diabetes, and cancer. Provides descriptions of CHW chronic disease programs, examples of state legislative action, recommendations of policies for building an integrated and sustainable CHW workforce, and resources that can assist state health departments in working with CHW.