Module 2: Community Health Worker Program Models

There are several types of community health worker (CHW) program models. These models vary based on the services provided, the patients and community members they serve, and the goals of the health program, among other factors. This module provides information on promising models for CHW programs and strategies for adapting the models to meet community needs.

To learn how to identify and adapt interventions, see Developing a Rural Community Health Program in the Rural Community Health Toolkit.

This toolkit identifies six models of CHW programs. These program models are not mutually exclusive. When designing a rural CHW program, it may be appropriate to adapt components from more than one program model to address community needs.

In this module:

• Promotora de Salud/Lay Health Worker Model
  CHWs are members of a target population with specialized training to provide health education.
• Member of Care Delivery Team Model
  CHWs work alongside medical professionals to address health issues.
• Care Coordinator/Manager Model
  CHWs help patients with complex health conditions navigate healthcare systems.
• Screening and Health Educator Model
  CHWs deliver screenings and health education to a target population.
• Outreach and Enrollment Agent Model
  CHWs are responsible for providing outreach and enrollment to a target population.
• Community Organizer and Capacity Builder Model
  CHWs promote community action and build community support for new activities.