In the intricate tapestry of health care, a group of dedicated individuals are quietly making a profound impact: community health workers (CHWs). These frontline workers, deeply rooted in the communities they serve, are building bridges between people, public health systems, and social support. Their role, though essential, remains largely underrecognized.

CHWs are trusted members of their communities who share similar cultural backgrounds and experiences with the individuals and communities they serve. This shared life experience allows them to connect with people on a deeply personal level. They educate, coach, and navigate people through complex healthcare systems, addressing social determinants of health and promoting wellness.

Bridging cultural and health care gaps

“Community health workers, community health representatives from tribes, promotoras, and more than 95 different work titles have over six decades of evidence of effectiveness to increase health care access, address health inequities, and improve community engagement and trust,” says Denise Octavia Smith, CHW and inaugural executive director of the National Association of Community Health Workers (NACHW).

Organizations like NACHW are at the forefront of supporting and advocating for these vital workers. In Massachusetts, CHWs have been instrumental in addressing a range of health disparities, from chronic disease management to maternal and child health. For example, CHWs have played a crucial role in improving vaccination rates in underserved communities, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, according to a study in the National Library of Medicine.  Many CHWs in Massachusetts are members of the Massachusetts CHW Association (MACHW).

In Boston, the work of CHWs is particularly impactful. Cities like Boston face complex health challenges, including disparities in access to care, chronic disease prevalence, and mental health concerns. CHWs are on the ground working tirelessly to address these issues. They may help residents enroll in Medicaid, connect them with nutrition programs, or provide support for those managing chronic conditions like diabetes or asthma.

Advocating on Capitol Hill for broader support

A key aspect of a CHW’s role is advocacy. They are often the voice of their community, advocating for policies that improve health outcomes. The Community Health Worker Access Act is a prime example of legislation that CHWs have championed. This landmark act aims to expand access to affordable health care by integrating CHWs into the traditional healthcare system, recognizing their vital role in bridging the gap between communities and medical providers.

Sanofi, a global healthcare company, has been a longtime partner and ally to NACHW, supporting their workforce sustainability efforts for several years. In fact, the vision to establish a national organization that unifies the workforce across the United States took nearly a decade to realize. In 2019, CHW leaders and allies from across the country, supported by Sanofi and other funders, founded NACHW. Since then, Sanofi has continued to provide support.

A commitment to community health workers

For example, Sanofi created an advisory team of employees that provides support and resources to NACHW in their advocacy efforts with local, state, and federally elected officials. Employees have joined CHWs for their advocacy efforts in Washington, D.C., supported amplification of National CHW Awareness Week in August, and provide ongoing knowledge and expertise on legislative strategy.

NACHW also saw a need for a national technology platform exclusively for CHWs to support the workforce, facilitate learning, share experiences, and unite their voices in policy and advocacy. To that end, Sanofi provided a multi-year grant and employee collaboration toward the development of a digital app called CHWConnector, which launched in September.

“As health care continues to evolve, the essential role of CHWs will become even more critical,” says Barb Short, senior director of corporate social responsibility engagement at Sanofi. “Investing in the sustainability of this workforce can help ensure improved health and wellbeing across underserved communities and address health disparities. As we aspire to a healthcare system that meets the needs of all people, our journey with NACHW has shown us the power and impact of community-driven solutions in the advancement of health equity.”

As national advocacy for the Community Health Worker Access Act continues, led by Boston-based organizations like NACHW and Partners in Health, CHWs and their allies remain committed to working with policymakers and stakeholders to ensure that their vital role is understood and legislation is passed. By providing federal recognition and support, the Community Health Worker Access Act will help to strengthen the CHW workforce and improve health outcomes for millions of Americans.