Community Health Workers (CHW) are an important part of the health care system. They provide preventive health information, referral and follow-up services that extend the reach of other health providers. CHWs are a fundamental link between the community and the public health care system because they help people access the health and social services they need. They also prevent and reduce cultural and language barriers and improve the quality and cost effectiveness of health care. CHWs are also known as Outreach Workers, Promotoras de Salud, Community Health Outreach Workers and Farm Health Aides.  Their work requires them to have healthy self-esteem, patience, tolerance, understanding, good communication and empathy.

Areas of Specialization
Depending on a particular educational program, Community Health Workers can get special training in areas such as child development or geriatric care, diabetes, women health issues, cancer prevention, and pre-natal care and others.

Work Environment
Community Health Workers may work out of hospitals, clinics, neighborhood outreach centers, public health departments, faith-based organizations, university programs and not-for-profit organizations. They work in diverse communities as paid staff and as volunteers.