Healthcare delivery has evolved since the passage of the Affordable Care Act, prompting health systems to find more effective ways to serve their communities and address identified health needs. Enter the community health worker.

The emergence of community health worker programs within healthcare systems has accelerated over the past five years. And with the potential for reduced government funding, community health workers play a critical role in advancing health equity.

Hospital foundations are increasingly partnering with community benefit departments to expand access to care. As public funding remains under pressure, philanthropic investments are becoming essential—helping hospitals sustain community health worker programs, strengthen community outreach, and develop innovative care models that drive meaningful improvements in health equity.

What Is a Community Health Worker?

A CHW is a newer role in healthcare and community outreach. This position is external—a frontline public health worker who is a trusted member of the community they serve.

These workers serve as a liaison between healthcare services and the community to facilitate access to services and improve the quality and cultural competence of service delivery. They help patients navigate complex healthcare systems, helping those who might otherwise fall through the cracks gain access to necessary services. Their work ensures that patients transition smoothly from hospital to community care, which is vital when hospital resources are strained due to budget cuts.

What Do Community Health Workers Do to Advance Health Equity?

CHWs build individual and community capacity by increasing health knowledge and self-sufficiency through a range of activities such as outreach, community education, informal counseling, social support, and advocacy. As of 2023, there are over 58,000 CHWs working to help address unmet health needs in historically disadvantaged and underserved communities.

CHWs not only deliver clinical care but also help tackle underlying social factors—such as housing instability, food insecurity, and transportation challenges—that disproportionately affect marginalized populations. By addressing these determinants, they play a direct role in reducing health disparities. Through proactive follow-up and support, CHWs reduce hospital readmissions and improve overall patient outcomes.

Read the full article about community health workers by Suzanne Ghee at The ENGAGE Blog.