Standard Occupational Classification (SOC): Community Health Workers

Community health workers (CHWs) are professionals who work with communities to promote health and wellness, prevent disease, and improve access to healthcare services. They are often the first point of contact for individuals seeking healthcare information and support and may work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, community centers, and private homes.

The specific responsibilities of a community health worker in healthcare may vary depending on the community they are serving and the specific needs of the population. Some common tasks that these professionals may be responsible for include:

Providing health education and information to individuals and communities Assisting with access to healthcare services, including helping individuals enroll in insurance and locate resources Connecting individuals with healthcare providers and other resources Conducting outreach and promoting health-related events and activities Identifying and addressing health-related needs and concerns within the community Providing support to individuals with chronic conditions or disabilities To become a community health worker in healthcare, individuals typically need to have a high school diploma or equivalent and may need to complete some specialized training or certification. It is also important for these professionals to have strong communication and interpersonal skills and a passion for helping others. Some states may require community health workers to be licensed or certified.