Community Health Workers

Community Health Workers (CHW) are front line public health workers who have shared experiences with the local communities they serve. In Tennessee where 91 of 95 counties are considered Health Professional Shortage Areas, CHWs have a unique opportunity to deliver culturally appropriate care and services.

Rural Health Association of Tennessee is leading the way in developing a rural-specific Community Health Worker (CHW) training. In January 2022, RHA of TN established a CHW Advisory Committee consisting of healthcare leaders employing CHWs. The committee will provide guidance on CHW training development and resources to support organizations employing CHWs.

Services for CHW Employers

• Assist employers establish Community Health Worker Apprenticeship Programs
• Community Heath Worker 101 Training
• Professional development incentives for CHW
• Community Health Worker instruction (under development)

To learn more about RHA's Community Health Worker program, contact [email protected]

CHW Resources

• Community Health Workers in Rural Settings via Rural Health Information Hub
• Community Health Workers Tool Kit via Rural Health Information Hub
• Resources for Community Health Workers via American Diabetes Association
• Tennessee Community Health Worker Collaborative via Meharry-Vanderbilt Alliance
• Community Health Workers: Recommendations for Bridging Healthcare Gaps in Rural America (policy brief) National Rural Health Association
• Rural Community Health Worker Network

View our Building Vaccine Confidence in Rural Communities Toolkit

Funding Opportunities for CHW Programs

The below opportunities may not be specific for CHWs, but CHWs could be included in the overall grant goals.

• Rural Communities Opioid Response Program - Behavioral Health Care Support

Thank You to our Funders!

Our Community Health Worker initiative is made possible by the generosity of the below funders: