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William Brieger, DrPH

Volunteer community health workers (CHWs) are a major strategy for increasing access to and coverage of basic health interventions. Our village health worker training course reviews the process of training and continuing education of CHWs as an important component of involving communities in their own health service delivery. Participants will be guided through the steps of planning training and continuing education activities for village volunteers. The course draws on real-life examples from community-directed onchocerciasis control, village health worker programs, community case management efforts, peer educators programs and patent medicine vendor training programs, to name a few.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Getting Started
In this module, we will focus on the principles of learning, as well as approaching the health service and the community. There will almost be a quiz covering the first two lectures.
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Diagnosing Needs and Identifying Objectives
In this module, we will focus on what information we will need to begin training and planning, as well as cover content, objectives, and SMART objectives. There will be a quiz covering lectures 3-4 after completing the lectures in this module. You will also begin to create your rough draft of your plan in the Course Project.
Selecting Training Methods, Materials, and Resources
In this module, we will focus on a variety of methods, training logistics, and educational materials. There will be a quiz that covers lecture 5-6 to after completing these lectures in this module.
Monitoring Implementation
In this module, we will focus on monitoring, as well as look at a sample community volunteer session. There will be a quiz covering lectures 7-8 after completing the lectures in this module. You will also be able to revise your rough draft in the Course Project section of this module.
Program Evaluation and Follow-Up
In this module, we will focus on evaluation, performance, and supervision. There will be a quiz covering lectures 9-10 after completing the lectures in this module.
Wrap-Up & Course Project
In this module, you will submit your final draft of your plan and wrap-up the course.

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Introduces the fundamentals of training community health workers, which is fundamental to public health delivery
Taught by experts in community health with extensive experience in volunteer training
Focuses on community involvement in their own health service delivery
Provides real-life examples from various community health programs
Guides participants through the planning and implementation of training activities
Covers the full training cycle from needs assessment and objective setting to program evaluation and follow-up

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Reviews summary

Valuable community health worker training

Learners say this is an excellent course that provides valuable information on training community health workers. Students are highly satisfied with the course materials, practical exercises, and expert instructors. The course is well-structured and engaging, making it a great resource for healthcare professionals, volunteer community health workers, and anyone involved in community development.
Course emphasizes training for community health workers.
"This course, Training and Learning Programs for Volunteer Community Health Workers, is very useful not only for health programs but also for any other community development trainings."
"Local resource persons are only those who will have been serving for their respective communities."
"Thus, to develop local resource persons is key to sustainable development."
Instructors are knowledgeable and experienced.
"The course facilitators demonstrated a high level of expertise and knowledge in the respective disciplines."
"The instructors are knowledgeable and experienced in the respective disciplines."
"The course is presented well and is very timely!"
Exercises help apply knowledge in real-world settings.
"The course proved to be highly engaging throughout its duration, incorporating practical examples strategically to enhance comprehension."
"The very complete, precise, and detailed course, which with practical exercises, allows applying knowledge in a training process applicable in real life in a community with all the limitations that exist is its reality."
"Excellent course with insightful guidance and practical assignments."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Training and Learning Programs for Volunteer Community Health Workers with these activities:
Create a comprehensive set of notes and materials for review before the course begins.
This activity will help you prepare for the course and identify any areas where you may need additional support.
Show steps
  • Review the course syllabus and identify the key topics that will be covered.
  • Gather any relevant materials, such as textbooks, articles, or online resources.
  • Create a system to organize your notes and materials for easy access.
Review your preferred medical coding system to ensure your familiarity with the most up-to-date version
This activity will help prepare you for the course's emphasis on accurate coding and documentation.
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  • Gather any materials you may need such as the coding manual.
  • Review the basics of your coding system, focusing on any updates or changes.
  • Complete some practice exercises to apply your knowledge.
Read 'Medical Coding Handbook' by Carol J. Buck
This activity will enhance your foundational understanding of medical coding.
Show steps
  • Purchase or borrow a copy of 'Medical Coding Handbook'.
  • Set aside dedicated time to read and study the book.
  • Take notes and highlight important information.
Six other activities
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Attend a medical coding webinar or workshop to learn about best practices.
This activity will help you stay up-to-date on industry standards and best practices.
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Show steps
  • Research and identify a reputable medical coding webinar or workshop.
  • Register for the event and arrange any necessary logistics, such as time off from work.
  • Actively participate in the webinar or workshop, taking notes and asking questions.
Complete practice quizzes and exercises related to medical coding.
This activity will help you reinforce your understanding of the course material.
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Show steps
  • Find practice quizzes and exercises online or in textbooks.
  • Time yourself to assess your speed and accuracy.
Assist fellow students or colleagues with their medical coding work.
This activity will reinforce your understanding of the material by helping others.
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  • Identify opportunities to assist others with their medical coding work, such as through online forums.
  • Provide constructive feedback and guidance.
Attend a medical coding industry conference or workshop to learn about emerging trends and technologies.
This activity will expose you to the latest advancements in the field.
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Show steps
  • Research and identify medical coding industry conferences or workshops.
  • Register for a conference or workshop.
  • Actively participate in the conference or workshop, taking notes and asking questions.
Volunteer at a local healthcare facility or clinic to assist with医疗编码 tasks.
This activity will provide you with practical experience in a real-world setting.
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Show steps
  • Research healthcare facilities or clinics in your area that offer volunteer opportunities.
  • Contact the facility or clinic to inquire about their volunteer program
  • Complete any necessary training or orientation.
  • Regularly volunteer your time to assist with medical coding tasks, such as abstracting data or assigning codes.
Participate in a medical coding competition or hackathon.
This activity will challenge you to apply your skills in a competitive environment.
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Show steps
  • Research and identify medical coding competitions or hackathons
  • Register for a competition or hackathon.
  • Collaborate with others to develop innovative solutions.
  • Present your solution and demonstrate your coding skills.

Career center

Learners who complete Training and Learning Programs for Volunteer Community Health Workers will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Community Health Worker
Community Health Workers (CHWs) are frontline public health workers who provide basic health care services to underserved communities. They play a vital role in promoting health, preventing disease, and improving access to care. This course provides CHWs with the knowledge and skills they need to be effective in their roles. It covers topics such as health assessment, disease prevention, health promotion, and community engagement. By taking this course, CHWs can gain the skills and confidence they need to make a positive impact on the health of their communities.
Health Educator
Health Educators design, implement, and evaluate health education programs aimed at promoting healthy behaviors and preventing disease. They work in a variety of settings, including schools, hospitals, community health centers, and government agencies. This course provides Health Educators with the knowledge and skills they need to be effective in their roles. It covers topics such as health behavior theory, program planning, and evaluation. By taking this course, Health Educators can gain the skills and knowledge they need to make a positive impact on the health of their communities.
Public Health Nurse
Public Health Nurses work to improve the health of populations by assessing health needs, developing and implementing health programs, and providing education and counseling. They work in a variety of settings, including community health centers, schools, and government agencies. This course provides Public Health Nurses with the knowledge and skills they need to be effective in their roles. It covers topics such as public health assessment, program planning, and evaluation. By taking this course, Public Health Nurses can gain the skills and knowledge they need to make a positive impact on the health of their communities.
Social Worker
Social Workers help people overcome social, emotional, and economic challenges that impact their health and well-being. They work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, schools, mental health clinics, and social service agencies. This course provides Social Workers with the knowledge and skills they need to be effective in their roles. It covers topics such as social work theory, case management, and counseling. By taking this course, Social Workers can gain the skills and knowledge they need to make a positive impact on the lives of their clients.
Epidemiologist
Epidemiologists investigate the causes and patterns of disease in populations. They use this information to develop and implement strategies to prevent and control disease. This course provides Epidemiologists with the knowledge and skills they need to be effective in their roles. It covers topics such as epidemiology, biostatistics, and research methods. By taking this course, Epidemiologists can gain the skills and knowledge they need to make a positive impact on the health of their communities.
Health Policy Analyst
Health Policy Analysts analyze health policy and develop recommendations for improving the health care system. They work in a variety of settings, including government agencies, think tanks, and advocacy organizations. This course provides Health Policy Analysts with the knowledge and skills they need to be effective in their roles. It covers topics such as health policy analysis, research methods, and advocacy. By taking this course, Health Policy Analysts can gain the skills and knowledge they need to make a positive impact on the health care system.
Healthcare Administrator
Healthcare Administrators plan, organize, and oversee the delivery of health care services. They work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, and health insurance companies. This course provides Healthcare Administrators with the knowledge and skills they need to be effective in their roles. It covers topics such as health care administration, finance, and management. By taking this course, Healthcare Administrators can gain the skills and knowledge they need to make a positive impact on the delivery of health care services.
Medical Assistant
Medical Assistants provide administrative and clinical support to physicians and other health care providers. They work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, and private practices. This course provides Medical Assistants with the knowledge and skills they need to be effective in their roles. It covers topics such as medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, and clinical procedures. By taking this course, Medical Assistants can gain the skills and knowledge they need to make a positive impact on the delivery of health care services.
Phlebotomist
Phlebotomists draw blood from patients for laboratory testing. They work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, and blood banks. This course provides Phlebotomists with the knowledge and skills they need to be effective in their roles. It covers topics such as venipuncture, specimen collection, and laboratory safety. By taking this course, Phlebotomists can gain the skills and knowledge they need to make a positive impact on the delivery of health care services.
Pharmacy Technician
Pharmacy Technicians assist pharmacists in dispensing medications and providing patient care. They work in a variety of settings, including pharmacies, hospitals, and clinics. This course provides Pharmacy Technicians with the knowledge and skills they need to be effective in their roles. It covers topics such as pharmacy law, pharmacology, and medication safety. By taking this course, Pharmacy Technicians can gain the skills and knowledge they need to make a positive impact on the delivery of health care services.
Medical Coder
Medical Coders assign codes to medical diagnoses and procedures for insurance billing purposes. They work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, and insurance companies. This course provides Medical Coders with the knowledge and skills they need to be effective in their roles. It covers topics such as medical terminology, coding guidelines, and insurance billing. By taking this course, Medical Coders can gain the skills and knowledge they need to make a positive impact on the delivery of health care services.
Nursing Assistant
Nursing Assistants provide basic care to patients in a variety of settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, and assisted living facilities. They work under the supervision of nurses and other health care professionals. This course provides Nursing Assistants with the knowledge and skills they need to be effective in their roles. It covers topics such as patient care, infection control, and medication administration. By taking this course, Nursing Assistants can gain the skills and knowledge they need to make a positive impact on the lives of their patients.
Dental Assistant
Dental Assistants assist dentists in providing patient care. They work in a variety of settings, including dental offices and clinics. This course provides Dental Assistants with the knowledge and skills they need to be effective in their roles. It covers topics such as dental terminology, dental procedures, and infection control. By taking this course, Dental Assistants can gain the skills and knowledge they need to make a positive impact on the delivery of dental care.
Medical Secretary
Medical Secretaries provide administrative support to physicians and other health care professionals. They work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, and private practices. This course provides Medical Secretaries with the knowledge and skills they need to be effective in their roles. It covers topics such as medical terminology, office procedures, and patient scheduling. By taking this course, Medical Secretaries can gain the skills and knowledge they need to make a positive impact on the delivery of health care services.
Medical Transcriptionist
Medical Transcriptionists transcribe medical dictation into written reports. They work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, and transcription companies. This course provides Medical Transcriptionists with the knowledge and skills they need to be effective in their roles. It covers topics such as medical terminology, transcription techniques, and quality control. By taking this course, Medical Transcriptionists can gain the skills and knowledge they need to make a positive impact on the delivery of health care services.

Reading list

We've selected 30 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Training and Learning Programs for Volunteer Community Health Workers.
Is commonly used as a training manual for health workers and community volunteers. It provides a comprehensive overview of the roles and responsibilities of CHWs, as well as guidance on how to train and supervise them.
Provides comprehensive guidance on the training and supervision of village health workers, covering topics such as curriculum development, training methods, and monitoring and evaluation.
This guide from the World Health Organization provides practical guidance on the development and support of volunteer health worker programs. It covers topics such as recruitment, training, supervision, and evaluation.
This manual provides step-by-step instructions for training community health workers in a variety of settings, including low-resource communities.
This manual provides a step-by-step guide to training community health workers. It covers all aspects of training, from planning and development to implementation and evaluation.
From the WHO can provide some of the context and motivation for the course, as well as provide detail to the topics covered.
This report provides an overview of the roles and responsibilities of community health workers in a variety of settings.
From the WHO may be useful as a secondary reference to this course. Note that this much more complex book that covers several subjects and goes into the subject at depth.
Provides practical guidance on how to develop and implement community-based health care programs, including how to train and supervise community health workers.
This toolkit from the World Health Organization provides a collection of tools and resources that can be used to support the development and management of community health worker programs.
A book that focuses on the United States health system. This may be useful to contrast to the course's description of the training of community health works in the developing world.
This guide provides resources for community health workers, including information on training, supervision, and evaluation.
This guide provides practical advice on how to train trainers of volunteer health workers. It covers all aspects of training, from planning and development to implementation and evaluation.
Provides an overview of health promotion in developing countries.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of the role of community health workers. It covers all aspects of community health work, from history and development to current practice.
This guide from the World Health Organization provides an overview of the roles that community health workers can play in the health system. It covers topics such as the different types of CHWs, the tasks that CHWs can perform, and the supervision of CHWs.
This guide provides practical guidance on how to develop and implement community-based health care programs, including how to train and supervise community health workers.
This guide provides practical guidance on how to develop and implement community-based health education programs, including how to train and supervise community health workers.
This report provides an overview of the role of community health workers in health promotion. It discusses the evidence for the effectiveness of community health workers in promoting health and preventing disease.
This guide provides practical advice on how to develop and implement policies that support community health workers. It covers all aspects of policy development, from planning and consultation to implementation and evaluation.

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