Q: Is being a community health worker stressful?

Yes, being a community health worker is stressful. In particular, community health workers (CHWs) are at risk of burnout from frequently working closely with patients with complex physical and social needs whose cases require an intentional focus on relationship building.

Q: Is being a community health worker a good job?

Yes, being a community health worker is a good job. While it's not a lucrative career, it is in high demand, and there is a good opportunity for job growth. Working as a community health worker can be a stressful job; however, it can also be a very rewarding career path.

Question 1

What is considered a community health worker?

Accepted Answer

A community health worker is considered a lay member of the community who works either for pay or as a volunteer in association with the local health care system in both urban and rural environments.

Question 2

Is being a community health worker stressful?

Accepted Answer

Yes, being a community health worker is stressful. In particular, community health workers (CHWs) are at risk of burnout from frequently working closely with patients with complex physical and social needs whose cases require an intentional focus on relationship building.

Question 3

Where do community health workers get paid the most?

Accepted Answer

Community health workers get paid the most in Washington DC and New Mexico. The average community health care worker earns $30,000 a year, while someone working in either state averages just over $60,000 a year. Community health workers in specialty hospitals also get paid the most compared to most other industries.

Question 4

How long is a community health worker certification program?

Accepted Answer

A community health worker certification program is anywhere between 31 to 1,000 hours long. In some states, there are specific statewide requirements for all community health worker (CHW) certification programs. In other states, it is left to the individual program or organizations.

Question 5

How much does a community health worker get paid?

Accepted Answer

A community health worker gets paid $30,000 a year, on average ($13.42 an hour). A community health worker just starting out can expect to make around $15,000 a year, while a community health worker with ten or more years of experience averages $54,320 a year.

Question 6

Is being a community health worker a good job?

Accepted Answer

Yes, being a community health worker is a good job. While it's not a lucrative career, it is in high demand, and there is a good opportunity for job growth. Working as a community health worker can be a stressful job; however, it can also be a very rewarding career path.

Question 7

What are examples of community health workers?

Accepted Answer

Examples of community health care workers include health coach, community health advisor, family advocate, health educator, liaison, promoter, outreach worker, peer counselor, patient navigator, health interpreter, or public health aide.

Question 8

What skills do you need to be a community health worker?

Accepted Answer

The skills needed for you to be a community health worker include advocacy, care coordination, communication, cultural humility, and outreach planning. This covers some of the major skill sets needed to be an effective community health worker. However, there are many other skills that will take time and experience to develop.

Frequently asked questions about community health workers

Questions about becoming a community health worker