Jobs to Careers: Advancing Community Health Workers through Work-based learning

INTRODUCTION—Despite evidence that community health workers (CHWs) improve access and health outcomes for underserved populations, optimal use of CHWs in health care settings remains limited due to nonstandard preparation, unclear job descriptions, and inadequate career paths. This presentation examines challenges, facilitators, and effects of investing in CHWs in Jobs to Careers: Transforming the Frontlines of Health Care Initiative, a grant-funded program aimed at educating and advancing CHWs using partnerships between employers and universities or colleges. METHODS—Data from the evaluation of 5 Community Health Centers included: (1) semi-structured interviews and focus groups with CEOs, HR staff, and workers; (2) pre- and post-training surveys of participants and controls; and (3) a web-based database tracking participant progress. RESULTS—Employers supported workers' formal education (e.g., college credit, certification), training (e.g., continuing education), and career advancement (e.g., promotions, raises). Workers experienced increased self-confidence, organizational validation; upgraded pay and promotions, and more responsibility and autonomy. Organizations reported improved recruitment and retention, increased workforce morale and organizational commitment, and a more knowledgeable and skilled workforce. Critical factors in achieving successful outcomes included: (1) structural supports (tuition assistance and educational release time); (2) collaborations with educational institutions and community organizations; (3) formal support for barrier reduction (transportation, childcare, stress management); (4) basic skills assessment and remediation; (5) supportive supervision; and (6) emphasis on problem based and experiential learning. CONCLUSION—Systematically enhancing the education and career advancement of CHWs can be successfully implemented in community health workplaces and can benefit both workers and employers.