223 - Implementation of a Survey to Understand the Experiences of Community Health Workers

Abstract Information: Community Health Workers (CHWs) are public health professionals with deep community ties who aim to improve individual health outcomes and community level resources through bidirectional connections designed to increase healthcare accessibility. They are cost-effective and contribute to better health at the community and individual level. Considering the substantial benefit CHWs bring, it is important to ensure that both their perspectives and their well-being are not overlooked by the agencies that employ them. Comagine Health sought to ensure that the voices of CHWs are incorporated into decisions that impact their work by implementing a survey that captures regular input regarding their experiences. Comagine Health’s CHW survey was created by reviewing existing CHW Survey tools and articles and adapting them to fit our specific purpose. The survey is intended to be conducted twice annually, capturing change over time, or as a one time measure to capture a snapshot of CHW experiences. This survey captures details about the services that CHWs have rendered and uses a 5-point Likert scale to assess levels of agreement on statements about CHW confidence performing tasks, the perceived level of inclusion and value as seen by other staff members, perceived level of value brought to clients, and perception of career opportunities. The survey closes with 4 open-ended items where CHWs can share the positives and challenges of their work, as well as indicate what supports and trainings could be useful to them. A healthcare provider survey, intended to capture provider opinions on CHW performance by addressing parallel metrics, will be employed to evaluate gaps between CHW and provider perceptions. These tools aim to create a sustainable work environment where CHWs are utilized to their full potential, address provider concerns and build provider understanding of CHW value. This poster will include details about survey development including the importance of measuring CHW experience and the logic supporting identified constructs. In order to ensure that the tool asked the right questions and addressed the key concerns of CHWs, the development process for the survey included a review of the current research regarding surveying CHWs, as well as incorporation of feedback from certified CHWs within our organization. Comagine Health intends to begin implementing the survey in Summer 2024, and this poster will include initial results and share key findings with AEA conference attendees.