The Business Case for Hiring CHWs: Why Your Organization Should Invest in a CHW Program

You may be among those who already understand the advantages of community health workers (CHWs) as a sound investment. Additionally, maybe you recognize how CHWs can boost the health and well-being of individuals and communities. Moreover, you also probably know that this leads to reduced healthcare costs, improved health outcomes, and overall community improvement.

But not everyone does.

That’s why if you want CHWs working for you, your job is to start convincing stakeholders. Demonstrate to them the value of hiring CHWs, including how they can elevate client care, expand community outreach and reduce healthcare expenses.

If it’s up to you to develop a comprehensive business case for your hires, you can lay the groundwork for including CHWs in your workforce. Then, you can show the value and impact they bring to your agency, the community and the overall healthcare system. Here’s an article that describes everything you need to know about CHWs that you can share with your team.

By creating a solid argument, you can calculate the potential benefits of hiring a CHW and show decision-makers the financial advantages. This way, they can understand the positive impact and advantages that come with employing CHWs, including cost savings, better health outcomes, and reduced healthcare usage.

This guide examines the advantages of hiring a CHW and the positive effects they can have on your organization. You can use it to demonstrate the importance of hiring CHWs.

What is a CHW?

A CHW is a trained healthcare professional who works to improve the health and well-being of individuals and communities. They are often members of the communities they serve and are trained to provide culturally appropriate care and education. CHWs can provide a range of services, including health education, outreach, advocacy and support for clients and their families. They play a vital role in improving access to healthcare and reducing health disparities in underserved communities.

How can a CHW benefit your healthcare organization?

To effectively advocate for the hiring of a CHW, begin by grasping the advantages they bring. Hiring a CHW can offer various benefits, such as:

• Enhancing client outcomes through education and support
• Assisting clients in better managing their health conditions
• Guiding clients through the healthcare system and coordinating services
• Reducing healthcare costs by preventing unnecessary hospitalizations and emergency room visits
• Strengthening community outreach by building relationships with community members and facilitating connections to healthcare resources

Improving client outcomes with CHWs.

CHWs are important members of care teams who educate and support clients. They assist clients in understanding their health conditions, medications, and treatment plans, and provide guidance on adopting healthy lifestyle choices.

Moreover, CHWs work closely with clients to identify and address potential barriers to care, such as transportation or financial issues. These efforts promote better adherence to treatment plans and ultimately result in improved health outcomes for clients.

Enhancing community outreach and engagement.

CHWs play a crucial role in connecting healthcare organizations with the communities they serve. Your business case can emphasize how CHWs can promote community involvement, build trust, and improve communication. This, in turn, leads to greater community participation, better health education, and increased rates of preventive care.

Cost-effectiveness of CHW programs.

Besides the various advantages of hiring CHWs for your healthcare organization, it’s important to consider their cost-effectiveness.

Studies have shown that CHW programs can lead to a reduction in healthcare costs by improving preventive care and reducing hospital readmissions.

CHWs can play a significant role in addressing healthcare disparities by offering care that respects different cultures and by linking clients with resources that can enhance their overall health.

Additionally, when healthcare organizations invest in a CHW program, they can experience benefits like better client outcomes and lower healthcare expenses, resulting in a positive return on investment.