Community Health Workers (CHWs) and Community Support Specialists (CSS) play a vital role in connecting individuals to healthcare and community-based resources. They support patients in navigating complex systems, managing chronic conditions, and addressing social determinants of health such as transportation, housing, and access to care.
This session will examine how CHWs and CSSs help close critical gaps in care coordination that contribute to avoidable emergency departments utilization and poor chronic disease outcomes. Drawing on rural health data trends and existing infrastructure, the presentation will explore current challenges in chronic care management, and unmet social needs across rural communities.
Participants will also gain an understanding of the CHW/CSS scope of work, including care navigation, patient engagement, an coordination with clinical and community services. The session will highlight how these roles improve outcomes by strengthening trust, improving adherence, reducing avoidable utilization, and supporting long-term system sustainability. Finally, it will discuss the financial and operational value of integrating CHWs and CSSs into rural health systems and opportunities for future expansion.
Cost: Free
When: Thursday, August 27, 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.