Rural Health Transformation: UK CTC Homeplace CHW - CL 8

Project Abstract The University of Kentucky Center of Excellence in Rural Health (UK CERH) Kentucky Homeplace CHW Training Expansion and Innovation Program addresses critical shortages in the rural Appalachian CHW workforce, with a particular emphasis on integration within Emergency Medical Services (EMS) systems. This three-year initiative will establish a scalable, hybrid virtual 40-hour mentorship program aligned with Kentucky Office of Community Health Workers (KOCHW) standards to train and certify at least 15 CHWs in underserved rural counties. The program introduces the Empowerment-Integrated Paraprofessional Network Model (EIPNM), an innovative hybrid platform that blends virtual learning, research-based empowerment theory, trauma-informed care, and an AI-driven simulation tool. This enables real- time client interaction practice, performance logging, and evaluation of CHW-client dynamics while reducing geographic and resource barriers to certification. Complementary activities include development and free delivery of a one-hour continuing education module on CHW- EMS integration via the CHFS TRAINS platform; exhibits or presentations at four key EMS leadership events; and representation on the RHT Workforce Workgroup to inform statewide rural CHW sustainability tools. Led by Dr. Caleb K. Williams (Project Director) with support from UK CERH leadership and experienced CHW faculty (including Michaela Amburgey, Josh Adams, Kyle Burnett, and field experts Carole Fraizer, Samantha Bowman, and Shirley Prater), the project leverages interdisciplinary expertise in implementation, technical architecture (Associate Professor Dmitry Strakvsky), and design by (Associate Professor Chad Eby). It provides participant stipends, video production for curriculum modules, marketing/outreach, and proctored mentorship to build a robust, culturally responsive paraprofessional network. This initiative advances health equity in Central Appalachia by empowering CHWs as community connectors and change agents, strengthening EMS integration, and generating actionable insights for future rural workforce development and research. Expected outcomes include increased certified CHWs, enhanced system awareness, and a replicable model for addressing rural health disparities through technology-enhanced, empowerment-focused training.