Activating Community Health Workers to Build Power Reduce Health Inequities in Black Populations

Project Description Narrative:

The community health worker (CHW) model addresses the social determinants of health (SDoH) by leveraging cultural connections and lived experiences to reduce health inequities and improve health outcomes, particularly within BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) communities. This model's significance has grown, especially post-COVID-19, as new Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) guidelines will require health care organizations (HCOs) to track SDoH.

This project will evaluate the effectiveness and impact of CHWs in Brown County’s health system, addressing concerns about potential limitations like restricted referrals and structural racism. By studying the real-world application and community feedback, the project partners seek to ensure that CHWs can effectively advocate for and support their communities without causing further trauma.

By improving the understanding and implementation of the CHW model, the project will improve understanding of the needs of uninsured or underinsured individuals and supply resources to communities experiencing health inequities. This evaluation could lead to improved public health strategies in Wisconsin and promote more equitable health outcomes.

Community partners: We All Rise: African American Resource Center, Prevea Health-Office of Health Equity