CMSHealthDisparitie

The CHW's role is one that seeks to empower beneficiaries and foster responsibility and ownership, rather than dependency.

Liaison to Community Resources and Referral Agent – Knowing the community and services available within that community is important.  Establishing relationships is an equally important aspect of community knowledge. Being able to successfully refer individuals “to the right place, for the right service, at the right time” is crucial for successful outcomes.

Health Counselor – A health counselor is one who is able to explain, clarify, and interpret the language of healthcare for the client, so that terminology, diagnostic elements, and treatments are understood.

Health Advocate – Advocacy does not create dependency on the community health worker. Rather, it serves the purpose of, being a support system until the beneficiary can advocate for himself. Navigating through the health care system may be included in this process as the person is guided successfully toward appropriate problem-solving and care options.

Health Educator – Individuals in this role educate individuals or groups and/or facilitate education options, which assists beneficiaries in gaining knowledge needed to make the best choices for maintaining their health, lowering their health risks, preventing illness, and managing their existing diseases.

Facilitator for Support Groups – Facilitating the support necessary for those experiencing diabetes or other changes is an important part of the beneficiary’s health journey. Successful programs have support as part of the process for change management. Equipping communities with the tools of support such as coaching and facilitation assures sustainability.

Volunteers Needed!  If you are:

• An individual with diabetes, know someone with diabetes or have experience with diabetes;
• Have the traits of a natural leader (you do not have to be a health professional)
• Fluent in the language and culture of your community;
• Willing to help diabetics and their loved ones develop skills and confidence to manage their diabetes on a daily basis;  or
• Live in one of the following states/territories where the Every Diabetic Counts program is running:  District of Columbia, Georgia, Louisiana, Maryland, New York, Tennessee, or the US Virgin Islands.

Contact the Health Disparities Quality Improvement Support Center at 877-746-6564 or email us at healthdisparitiesqiosc@hcdi.com, and we will forward you the appropriate information.