Community health workers (CHWs) play a vital role in bridging the gap between healthcare systems and the communities they serve. Often working directly within underserved or at-risk populations, CHWs help improve access to care, promote health education, and advocate for individuals and families navigating complex health systems. Their work is essential in addressing health disparities, building trust, and supporting long-term wellness at the local level.
What Does a Community Health Worker Do?
Community health workers develop programs and initiate partnerships that promote healthy behaviors within a community, with the goal of improving health outcomes across the population.
The scope of a community health worker’s role may vary based on the agency they work for and the population they serve. However, common job responsibilities include:
- Improving care coordination between individuals and healthcare providers
- Creating and implementing outreach programs that target vulnerable community members
- Developing culturally appropriate health resources tailored to meet the unique needs of the population
- Advocating to improve healthcare access, reduce the equity gap, and increase food security
- Hosting health screenings and events designed to promote public health education
- Soliciting feedback from community members to uncover new opportunities for community health initiatives
- Providing emotional and social support to communities
Community health workers are embedded into day-to-day life, often serving as a liaison between local residents and healthcare providers. The immersive, engaging work that they do each day can be incredibly rewarding, especially since they often develop meaningful relationships with community members.
Where Do Community Health Workers Work?
The work environment for community health workers varies significantly based on the community where they work and the agency that employs them. Oftentimes, community health workers specialize in niche areas such as social services, ambulatory healthcare services, and government agencies. While not as common, some community health workers may work in hospitals or for religious organizations.
To develop effective programming and create lasting community partnerships, community health workers often have to do hands-on work in the field. Although they may spend some time in the office analyzing data or generating reports, they spend a significant portion of their day at community events, clinics, and meetings.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics notes that most community health workers are employed full-time, and many do not work traditional business hours. This position often requires professionals to work nights and weekends, particularly when hosting community events.
Job Outlook
Community health professionals frequently collaborate with healthcare providers and community leaders to develop innovative solutions and effective programming designed to help improve outcomes in a particular population. As the healthcare landscape continues to evolve, and health professionals prioritize patient-centered care strategies, there is expected to be an increased demand for community health workers.
According to the BLS, employment levels for community health workers are expected to rise faster than average over the course of the next decade. The BLS anticipates that employment levels will grow by more than 13% between 2023 and 2033, with about 7,500 openings expected each year.
The heightened demand for community health workers can be attributed to an aging population, as well as an increase in diverse patient needs. The majority of people managing chronic diseases will continue to rely on the help of community health workers to access the information and resources they need to enjoy healthy, fulfilling lives.
Becoming a Community Health Worker
Research from the American Health Association shows that community health workers play a critical role in preventing disease and reducing health disparities in communities around the country. To become a community health worker, you will need to:
- Complete the educational requirements for this field. The BLS states that most community health positions require candidates to have a post-secondary degree or diploma. A bachelor’s degree in a related field, such as public health or applied psychology, can provide the comprehensive foundation needed to advance your career in this field.
- Pursue additional training opportunities. Depending on the area you specialize in and the community you serve, you may need to prioritize training throughout your career. For example, community health professionals often need to complete ongoing training in cultural awareness, ethics, technology, and outreach strategies.
- Gain professional experience. Professional experience in community health allows you to develop the practical, technical, and soft skills necessary to succeed in entry-level community health positions. You can achieve this through an internship or even a virtual job shadowing experience.
If you consider yourself to be an empathetic, committed, and culturally-sensitive individual, then you may be well-suited to the role of a community health worker. By exploring this field and learning more about the daily tasks and responsibilities of these professionals, you can decide if this is the right career path for you.
Learn About the Vital Role of Community Health Workers at Unity Environmental University
Through their dedication to improving equity and accessibility, community health workers often make a direct impact on the lives of people in their local area. Our Applied Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Human Services at Unity Environmental University prepares graduates to play an active role in community life, including developing the skills required to pursue a career as a community health worker.
Students interested in cultivating leadership and well-being in others may also explore our Bachelor of Science in Applied Positive Psychology and Leadership, which focuses on empowering individuals and communities to thrive.
At Unity Environmental University Distance Education, students can enjoy a robust and supportive online learning program, as well as career service support designed to help them meet their goals. Chat with Una about our online degree programs today.
