Community Health Workers

Community Health Workers are public health professionals who serve as trusted liaisons between communities and healthcare systems. They help individuals navigate services, understand health information, and adopt healthier behaviors by providing culturally informed education, advocacy, and support. Their work improves access to care, reduces health disparities, and strengthens community well-being.

This career is well suited for individuals who are community-oriented, empathetic, and motivated to improve health outcomes through education and connection.

What Do Community Health Workers Do?

Community health workers (CHWs) provide outreach, education, and assistance tailored to local needs.

Common responsibilities include:

• Educating individuals and groups about health topics and prevention
• Helping clients access healthcare, social services, and resources
• Conducting outreach and community engagement activities
• Assisting with care coordination and follow-up
• Supporting chronic disease management and wellness programs
• Collecting basic health data and reporting outcomes
• Advocating for community needs within health systems

Areas of Focus and Service

Community health workers may focus on specific populations or health priorities:

• Chronic Disease Support: Diabetes, heart disease, asthma, or hypertension education.
• Maternal and Child Health: Prenatal care, early childhood wellness, and parenting support.
• Behavioral and Mental Health: Screening support and service navigation.
• Public Health Outreach: Immunizations, screenings, and health campaigns.
• Health Access and Navigation: Insurance enrollment and appointment coordination.

Skills and Abilities Needed

Community health workers combine health knowledge with strong interpersonal skills.

Core Professional Skills

- Health education and communication techniques - Care coordination and service navigation - Cultural competence and community engagement - Basic data collection and documentation - Knowledge of local health and social services - Advocacy and problem-solving

Personal Qualities That Matter

- Empathy and active listening - Trust-building and cultural sensitivity - Reliability and professionalism - Adaptability and resourcefulness - Strong verbal communication - Commitment to community service

Education and Training Pathway

Requirements vary by employer and state, but commonly include:

• High School Diploma or Equivalent: Typical minimum requirement
• Postsecondary Training or Certificate: Community health or public health programs
• On-the-Job Training: Learning outreach methods and local resources
• State or Program Certification (where applicable): Required in some regions
• Continuing Education: Ongoing training in health topics and best practices

Where Do Community Health Workers Work?

Community health workers are employed across healthcare and community settings:

• Community Health Centers and Clinics
• Public Health Departments
• Hospitals and Health Systems
• Nonprofit and Community-Based Organizations
• Schools, Faith-Based, and Outreach Programs

Work often takes place in community settings, homes, or local organizations.

How Much Do Community Health Workers Earn?

Earnings vary by funding source, location, and experience:

• Entry-Level Community Health Workers: Typically earn hourly wages or modest salaries
• Experienced or Certified CHWs: Often earn higher pay with specialization
• Program Leads or Supervisors: May earn more with added responsibility

Compensation may depend on public funding or grant-supported programs.

Is This Career Difficult?

The work can be emotionally demanding, as community health workers support individuals facing complex health and social challenges. The challenge lies in balancing advocacy, education, and system navigation while maintaining boundaries, documentation, and self-care.

Who Should Consider Becoming a Community Health Worker?

This career may be a strong fit if you:

• Enjoy helping people and communities
• Communicate clearly and empathetically
• Are comfortable working outside traditional office settings
• Value prevention, education, and equity in healthcare
• Want a role with direct community impact

How to Prepare Early

• Volunteer in community health or social service programs
• Study health education, public health, or social sciences
• Develop communication and cultural competency skills
• Learn about local health systems and resources
• Explore community health worker training or certification programs

Community health workers strengthen health systems from the ground up by building trust, sharing knowledge, and connecting people to care—turning community relationships into better health outcomes for individuals and neighborhoods alike.