What role do community health workers play in UHC?

Community health workers play a vital role in achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) by providing essential services and serving as a bridge between underserved populations and healthcare systems. Their primary responsibilities include educating the community about health issues, facilitating access to healthcare services, and promoting healthy behaviors. This direct engagement helps to identify and mitigate barriers that prevent people from receiving necessary care, especially in marginalized or low-income populations. By connecting individuals to the healthcare system, community health workers not only improve health outcomes but also work towards reducing health disparities, which is a key goal of UHC.

Their work is grounded in understanding the specific needs and cultural contexts of the communities they serve, which enhances communication and trust between healthcare providers and the community. This is crucial for fostering an inclusive healthcare environment where everyone has access to necessary services, thereby aligning with the overarching principles of UHC focused on equity and access for all.