Salisbury, MD & Seaford, DE — Community health workers (CHWs) play a pivotal role in increasing access to healthcare. They are trusted members of their communities with a passion to help people improve their health by connecting them to healthcare, social services and community-based resources.
In recognition of National CHW Awareness Week, which is observed from Aug. 25 to 29, TidalHealth is highlighting its CHW program and shining a spotlight on collaborative efforts to elevate the role of a CHW as an integral part of the healthcare system.
TidalHealth has employed CHWs since 2016. Since then, the role has evolved as part of a multidisciplinary community health team that includes nurses, social workers, and CHWs working together to provide medical and non-medical support, ensuring that all TidalHealth patients receive the care and support they need to live an active, healthy life.
TidalHealth’s CHWs help people with chronic health problems navigate and connect to community resources. They advocate for patients and help connect them to services such as health insurance, primary care, preventative care, food, safe housing or home repairs, transportation and health education.
Recognizing the value of CHWs, TidalHealth, Sussex County Health Coalition, Eastern Shore Area Health Education Center, local health departments, and other community-based partner organizations have established goals and strategies to increase the number of CHWs throughout our communities.
The National Association of Community Health Workers developed National CHW Awareness Week to increase awareness of CHW identity, roles, impact on communities, and leadership – and to promote policies that respect, protect and authentically partner with the CHW profession.
To learn more about community wellness programs at TidalHealth, visit tidalhealth.org/community-wellness.
