How to become a community health worker
Community health workers are an important part of the healthcare system. They can provide basic health services like vaccinations and education, as well as more complex care for chronic conditions or other needs. Community health workers are usually people who live in the community where they work and have some knowledge of local customs, so they can better connect with patients.
You may be interested in becoming a community health worker if you like helping others and want to work with your neighbors. You’ll also need to have some experience in the field of medicine or public health. Community health workers typically have some form of certification or license from their state’s department of public health, although requirements vary from state to state.
It is important to understand the role of a community health worker in order to become one. When you become a community health worker, you will be responsible for helping people in your community stay healthy. Community health workers are able to provide support and information about many different issues related to health, including mental health and substance abuse.
In order to become a community health worker, you will need at least a high school diploma or equivalent. It is also important that you have strong interpersonal skills, as well as good communication skills so that you can help others who are struggling with their own problems. A bachelor’s degree in public health or social work is also helpful when looking for these types of jobs because it allows you to better understand why people need help with their health issues.
How To Become Community Health Worker
Community health workers are closely tied to the communities they serve. They’re dedicated to making a difference and improving public health in their communities. Through advocacy, education, and informal counseling, they provide support to individuals and families.
Today, with the rising costs of healthcare and the need for health interventions, CHWs are in high demand. Their work directly impacts community health initiatives and individual health outcomes.
Are you interested in making a difference in your community? Curious about how to become a community health worker? Find out more about the career below.
How Do I Become a Community Health Worker?
The steps to becoming a community health worker depend on a variety of factors. What type of position are you looking for? Where do you live? Are you looking to work for a nonprofit, government, or hospital role?
At a minimum, entry-level positions usually require a high school diploma or associate degree. However, most CHW positions require a bachelor’s degree in a healthcare-related field. And if you’re interested in working in the federal government or a public health agency, you’ll likely need a master’s or doctoral degree.
Step One: Obtain a health-related bachelor’s degree
The first step to starting your CHW career is getting a bachelor’s degree in a health-related field. A bachelor’s degree in health services coordination prepares you to navigate the complexities of the healthcare system. You’ll use your knowledge to support individuals and families and connect them with resources.
Step Two: Get on-the-job training or a certification
While you’re pursuing your bachelor’s degree, consider finding an internship or mentorship program to get some experience working with individuals in the community. After you graduate, you can either pursue a CHW certificate or start applying to jobs, depending on your goals.
Step Three: Find your specialization
Between managing caseloads and monitoring health progress, CHWs are well equipped for healthcare services. Some CHWs use the role as a starting point for their healthcare careers. They may decide to shift into nursing, public health, or another role in medicine.
Others specialize or dive deeper into community health work. On the community-facing side, you could focus on mental health, diabetes education, drug and alcohol counseling, or health education.
For CHWs interested in the administrative side of things, one option is to pursue a role as a program coordinator. Program coordinators oversee public health programs and are deeply involved in planning, implementation, and assessments. Another option is becoming a director of family health services. Unlike a standard CHW role, directors don’t usually work directly with the community. Instead, they help manage projects, hire and supervise CHW staff, and oversee program budgets.
Do I Need a Community Health Worker Certification for This Position?
For many states, certification is voluntary; however, some states require a community health worker certification. Many organizations require a bachelor’s degree and may require on-the-job training, certifications, or an advanced degree.
Best Degrees for Community Health Workers
Nursing (Prelicensure) – B.S.
A one-of-a-kind nursing program that prepares you to be an RN…
College of Health Professions
Health Services Coordination – B.S.
An online health degree program for students passionate about…
College of Health Professions
Nursing – Leadership and Management (BSN-to-MSN) – M.S.
For registered nurses with a bachelor’s degree who are ready for…
College of Health Professions
Value-Based Care – Certificate Program
A certificate program designed to provide healthcare…
College of Health Professions
Nursing (RN-to-BSN Online) – B.S.
An online BSN degree program for registered nurses (RNs) seeking…
College of Health Professions
Nursing – Nursing Informatics (RN–to–MSN) – M.S.
A nursing program that empowers data-driven nurses to go from RN…
College of Health Professions
Nursing Leadership and Management – Post-Master’s Certificate
A certificate for registered nurses with a master’s degree in…
College of Health Professions
Next Start Date
Sep. 1
Start the 1st of any month—as soon as you complete enrollment!Apply Today
Our Online University Degree Programs Start on the First of Every Month, All Year Long
No need to wait for spring or fall semester. It’s back-to-school time at WGU year-round. Get started by talking to an Enrollment Counselor today, and you’ll be on your way to realizing your dream of a bachelor’s or master’s degree—sooner than you might think!
Learn about online college admissions at WGU.
Compare Healthcare Degree Options
There are many healthcare degree options to choose from. Compare them to find the best fit for you.
What Skills Does a Community Health Worker Need?
Community health workers usually don’t work alone in a back office or hide behind their computers all day. Just like the name suggests, being a CHW entails working in the community. Community health workers are empathetic and willing to go the extra mile to ensure individuals have access to the care services they need.
Whether you work in a hospital setting or with family services, being a CHW involves connecting with others and promoting health for residents in the community.
Some qualities of a community health worker include:
- Strong interpersonal communication and relationship-building skills
- Understanding of local social and health resources to make appropriate referrals
- Ability to maintain electronic medical records and manage data
- Comfortable with public speaking and leading group discussions and workshops
- Strong organization and case management skills
- Ability to provide counseling and mentorship to community members
- Knowledge of and a strong desire to help the community
- Comfortable conducting home visits and community outreach
- Risk identification skills to recommend appropriate health plan and refer services
- Cultural competency to communicate appropriately with a variety of populations
- Bilingual, if relevant in the community served
How Much Does a Community Health Worker Make?
$42,000
A Community Health Worker’s salary varies depending on the industry served, whether that’s hospitals, nonprofits, government, or family services. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that the median salary for CHWs was $42,000 in 2020.
What Is the Job Outlook For a Community Health Worker?
13%
To reduce healthcare costs and improve public health outcomes, organizations will increasingly look to community health workers to educate, promote health, and be a resource for the community. The BLS predicts the demand for CHWs is expected to grow by 13%—much faster than the average for all occupations.
Where Does a Community Health Worker Work?
Varies
Most CHWs work in their own communities, giving them the ability to understand and empathize with the population they serve. As a community health worker, you could work in a variety of settings, including a doctors’ office, hospital, private business, college, or nonprofit organization.
