The Role of Community Health Workers in Developing Multidimensional Organizational Relationships.

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

7-1-2022

Publication Title

The Journal of ambulatory care management

Keywords

oregon; portland; core; diversity; COVID-19; Community Health Workers; Humans; Qualitative Research; Washington; Workforce

Abstract

Effective care coordination relies on organizations working collaboratively to meet medically and socially complex participants' needs. This study examines community health workers' (CHWs') roles in developing the organizational relationships on which care coordination efforts depend. Semistructured interviews (n = 13) were conducted with CHWs, CHWs' supervisors, and executive staff at organizations participating in a Washington State care coordination program. Interviewees described how CHWs developed and furthered multidimensional relationships in service of participants between and within participating organizations, as well as external organizations. Relationship-building challenges included COVID-19, geographic context, and staffing. The study concludes with considerations for care coordination efforts to support CHWs.

Department

Population Health

Link to Full Text

PSJH Full Text

Share

COinS