Integrating community health workers into state and local chronic disease prevention efforts: Program and financing considerations

As states, localities and cross-sector efforts like Accountable Communities of Health (ACHs) develop upstream prevention programs, identifying where community health workers (CHWs) can be most effective – with what population, condition and intervention – will help to inform intervention design. This brief explores the unique role CHWs can play in addressing the social needs that have tremendous impact on the burden of chronic disease, particularly among low-income populations. While the brief draws upon information gathered to help Washington State and its ACHs, it also outlines lessons for any state seeking to integrate CHWs into their chronic disease prevention and control interventions.

This brief: (1) outlines a common definition and roles for CHWs; (2) examines the evidence behind incorporating CHWs into upstream prevention efforts; and (3) discusses financing options available to support CHWs. The brief starts by providing context on Washington’s reform effort and its interest in utilizing CHWs to further these efforts.