Community Health Worker Training (C3761)

Abstract: Kentucky Homeplace Community Health Worker Training (C3761), Health Equity Carveout COVID Date of Service: 07/01/2022 through 05/31/2023 The UK Center of Excellence in Rural Health will maintain operation of the Kentucky Homeplace Community Health Workers (CHW) Training Project. Kentucky Homeplace shall provide specific training for up to twenty-two (22) CHWs, to be hired and housed at local health departments or community- based organizations in Kentucky, using the approved Tier I CHW training. This training shall enhance CHW skill sets, who are working in Kentucky, to improve healthcare outcomes for people facing health related barriers. Health inequities were exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic which highlighted the social, economic, and physical hardships faced by communities. These challenges not only impact short-term health and health care needs, but also impact the overall, long-term well-being on individuals, families, and communities. Addressing this public health issue will require interventions that enable systemic changes and creates sustainability. KDPH has received a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention grant to utilize Community Health Workers (CHW) to implement evidence-based interventions and strategies related to addressing health disparities related to COVID-19, underlying chronic conditions, and social determinants of health for underserved populations. These funds are specific to expanding the CHW workforce through provision of competency-based Tier 1 training. They are to be utilized to provide specific training to enhance CHW skill sets, who are working in Kentucky, to improve healthcare outcomes for people facing health related barriers.