Project MATCH: Training for a Promotora Intervention

Adequate training and support are critical for Promotoras to work effectively. MATCH(Mexican American Trial of Community Health workers) is a research study designed to test the effectiveness of an intensive, Promotora-based self management intervention to improve disease management for Latinos with diabetes. The MATCH Promotoras participated in a 2.5 day session on diabetes followed by 100 additional hours of training on diabetes, Promotora practice, and self management skills including: self-monitoring, environmental restructuring, social support, problem-solving/decision making, and stress management. The promotoras modeled these skills by developing their own self-management plans, building connection and camaraderie amongst the team. The existing knowledge and skills of the Promotoras were assessed on a daily basis and used to tailor training to address their specific learning needs. Promotoras were evaluated via role play and an observational assessment of competence, which documented increased skills, as well as areas for further training. Initial training was held in the target community. Ongoing training during the intervention phase of the study includes a bimonthly session to review the intervention protocol, answer Promotora questions, and discuss specific participant/case issues, as well as individual collaboration with the team's psychologist. All Promotora home visits are tape recorded allowing for further monitoring of the intervention. Comparison of these data with those from the initial training suggests that Promotora skills are increasing as the study and training progress. Implications of this intensive and ongoing training will be discussed, including cost, development of Promotora competency measures and replication of the MATCH intervention model.