Community Health Workers: Champions of Rural Well-being
Episode Overview
CHWs possess important skills such as honesty, knowledge, good communication, flexibility, and adaptability Factors to consider in rural community health include available resources, needs of the community, and social determinants of health Challenges in rural community health include professional development opportunities, stigma, and lack of transportation CHWs promote healthy living through various activities including community health fairs and care coordination CHWs raise awareness about addiction and substance misuse through educational outreach and discussions
When you go, you should also make sure that you're speaking loud and clear, that your audience will understand what you're talking about and making sure that you're knowledgeable of what you're talking about. Because you want to rely and relay good information to your audience.
Imagine living in a place where healthcare services are miles away, and getting medical help feels like an uphill battle. This episode of 'Rural Roads: The RCORPodcast' dives into how Community Health Workers (CHWs) are changing that narrative in rural communities. Guest host Sue Gadacz, Technical Expert Lead for West Central Alabama Area Health Education Center (AHEC), takes us on a journey to understand the pivotal role these unsung heroes play. Sue, along with Dr.
Liza Nicholson and her team, unpack the everyday realities and challenges CHWs face while working in rural settings. They discuss the essential skills CHWs need, from empathy to resourcefulness, and how these skills help bridge the gap between healthcare providers and the community. You'll hear stories about how CHWs are not just health educators but also advocates, mentors, and sometimes even lifesavers.
The episode sheds light on how CHWs tackle social determinants of health, such as poverty and lack of education, which often go hand-in-hand with poor health outcomes. By addressing these root causes, CHWs are making a tangible difference in improving health equity. You'll also learn about innovative programs and initiatives spearheaded by West Central Alabama AHEC that support CHWs in their mission to promote healthy living and raise awareness about addiction and substance misuse.
Whether you're a healthcare professional, someone interested in public health, or living in a rural area yourself, this episode offers valuable insights into the transformative power of Community Health Workers. It's a testament to how grassroots efforts can lead to significant changes in health outcomes and community well-being.