Community Health Workers

Connecting People to Care and Community Resources

Finding the care and support you need isn't always easy. Maybe you need help finding a doctor, getting to an appointment, or learning about services in your community.

Community Health Workers (CHWs) help people overcome these challenges. They provide health information, connect people with local resources, and help individuals and families take steps toward better health.

What Do Community Health Workers Do?

Community Outreach and Relationship Building
CHWs work with individuals, families, healthcare providers, businesses, and community organizations. They help people learn about available services and build connections within their communities.

Health Education and Prevention
CHWs share information about staying healthy and preventing illness. Topics may include blood pressure, diabetes, vaccines, maternal and child health, and other health concerns.

Health Screenings and Wellness Activities
CHWs may provide health screenings, including blood pressure, blood sugar (glucose), cholesterol, and lead testing. They also share health information and help people understand when they may need additional medical care.

Finding Care and Community Resources
CHWs help people find services they may need, such as healthcare, health insurance, transportation, housing, and food assistance. They can also help people understand where to go and who to contact.

Encouragement and Support
Making healthy changes can be difficult. CHWs listen, answer questions, and help people set health goals. They also encourage people to speak up about their needs and take an active role in their health.

Why Are Community Health Workers Important?
Not everyone has the same access to healthcare and community resources. Some people face challenges such as transportation, cost, or not knowing where to find help.
CHWs help close these gaps by connecting people with information, services, and support.
They work in places where people live, work, and gather, including homes, schools, clinics, senior centers, and community events.

How CHWs Help in Southwest Nebraska
At Southwest Nebraska Public Health Department (SWNPHD), our Community Health Workers helps residents across our nine-county district learn about their health and find services they may need.
This work includes:

• Providing blood pressure screenings and offering blood sugar, cholesterol, and lead screenings when available.

• Sharing information about preventing illness and managing long-term health conditions.
• Helping residents find local services and community resources.
• Connecting individuals and families with available health department programs.
• Working with community partners to identify needs and improve access to services.

By bringing health information and support into our communities, SWNPHD helps make it easier for residents to take steps toward better health.

 

 

Every Connection Makes a Difference!
Community Health Workers do more than share information. They listen, build trust, and help people find the support they need.

Need help finding health services or community resources?
Contact Southwest Nebraska Public Health Department to learn how our Community Health Worker may be able to help.