Community Health Workers in Illinois – A Value Driven Solution for Population Health

Illinois, like many other states, lacks some of the underlying policies, systems, and infrastructure to integrate CHWs effectively into the health care and social services systems. This report recommends that Illinois develop a strong supportive infrastructure to ensure the sustainability of this vital workforce and to strengthen the depth and breadth of its impact. Toward this end, the Illinois Community Health Worker Advisory Board has developed recommendations for standards and policies around five key areas: (1) core competencies and roles; (2) training and certification; (3) financing and reimbursement; (4) workforce development; and (5) raising awareness.