Community Health Worker

Overview

Community Health Workers (CHWs) connect people to the services they need to stay healthy. They work with individuals, families, and communities to promote, maintain, and improve overall well-being. CHWs provide information on available resources, offer informal counseling and social support, and work with people to help them develop healthy habits. They also advocate for better health in their communities, and assist patients in navigating the healthcare system.

CHWs play a vital role in improving access to care for people who may otherwise struggle to find it. They create lasting relationships and ultimately better health outcomes by building trust within their communities.

Work Environment

Community Health Workers are often working in underprivileged, marginalized communities where people have limited resources and the inability to access quality healthcare. You’ll find CHWs in hospitals and clinics, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations, as well as in some schools and community centers.

Community Health Worker Core Competencies

• Communication Skills
• Interpersonal and Relationship-Building Skills
• Service Coordination and Navigation Skills
• Capacity Building Skills
• Advocacy Skills
• Education and Facilitation Skills
• Individual and Community Assessment Skills
• Outreach Skills
• Professional Skills and Conduct
• Evaluation and Research Skills

Demand

The need for community health workers in New York State is expected to increase 14% between 2022 and 2032.

Salary

The median salary range, as stated by the New York State Department of Labor, for the Capital Region, Central New York, and the Finger Lakes, is $47,803 – $65,496.