Community Health Worker (CHW)

Teaches effective and respectful communication, including listening, speaking, sharing information, and trust-building with clients, community members, and professionals. Covers the Community Healthcare Workers roles and responsibilities in protecting client privacy and confidentiality. Lecture 1 credit (15 contact hours).

Applies effective outreach methods based on community needs and strengths, knowledge about available resources, and sensitivity to personal and cultural dynamics that affect behavior and relationships. Lecture: 1 credit (15 contact hours).

Teaches advocacy and public health concepts to help create conditions and build relationships that lead to better health. Explores capacity building requirements such as planning, cooperation, and commitment to work to develop public awareness, organizational rules, institutional practices, or public policy. Lecture: 1 credit (15 contact hours).

Develops health coaching skills to educate and support individuals in behavioral changes, including motivating and supporting healthier lifestyles, and working with clients, families, and providers to address obstacles to health improvement while understanding the CHWs role as an educator and coach. Laboratory: 1 credit hour (30 contact hours).

Promotes coordination and efficiency through documentation, discussing client and community assessments, sharing information with agency colleagues and partners, exploring the use of computer technology, and applying English communication and alternative language arrangements based on linguistic, cultural expertise, and community relationships. Lecture: 1 credit (15 contact hours).

Covers ethical and legal challenges as a Community Health Worker, including the reporting requirements of client confidentiality and privacy rights, emphasizing the importance of self-care, and adhering to agency rules and regulations when assisting community members. Lecture: 1 credit (15 contact hours).