Community & Practical Support
Community health workers
Community health workers connect people with health information, care systems and local resources.
Overview
Community health workers often share language, culture or lived experience with the communities they serve. They may offer outreach, appointment navigation and practical education, not independent medical diagnosis.
Ask a community health center, local health department or 211.org about community health worker or community navigator programs.
What to expect
- Discuss goals, language and access needs.
- Identify barriers such as transport or paperwork.
- Review health information and local referrals.
- Plan check-ins and connection with the care team.
Why people explore it
- People often explore it for understanding health information.
- People often explore it for connecting with local services.
- People often explore it for overcoming barriers to appointments.
These are common reasons people look into it — not a sign that it's right for you.
What the evidence says
Practical, social or spiritual support
A source of support and connection rather than a clinical treatment.
Better supported
- This service offers practical help, information or social connection rather than a cure.
Promising, but limited or uncertain
- Availability, quality, eligibility and personal fit vary; benefit is not guaranteed.
Not supported by evidence
- Support services do not replace medical assessment, mental health treatment or emergency care.
Possible risks and precautions
- Training and available services differ across programs.
- Confirm privacy rules before sharing sensitive details.
- Do not rely on a navigator for urgent symptoms or medication changes.
If you have a health condition, are pregnant, or take medicines, ask your healthcare provider first.
Who provides it
- Community health workers and community navigators receive program-specific training.
- Some states offer certification; requirements vary by state, and the role is not the same as a licensed clinician.
Questions to ask before booking
- What training and supervision do you have?
- What languages and communities do you serve?
- What can you help with, and what needs a clinician?
- How will you protect and share my information?
Costs and coverage
- Ask about fees, eligibility, waitlists and any funding limits before enrolling.
- Coverage and assistance rules vary; check with your plan and the organization rather than assuming services are covered or free.
Coverage changes often and differs by plan. Always confirm with your insurer and the provider.
Find this service
Search our free Find Help directory under “Community organizations”. Listings are information only — appearing there is not an endorsement.
Watch & learn
No video for this topic yet.
Browse all wellness videosThink it through
What would I like to know about community health workers before deciding whether it's right for me?
Your journal is private to you.
Sources
Content reviewed . Written for general education and not yet reviewed by a licensed clinician.
Educational only — not medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Supportive wellness practices do not replace necessary medical or mental-health care. Options are not equally effective, and not every option is right for every person. Please talk with a qualified healthcare professional about your own situation. In an emergency, call your local emergency number; in the US, call or text 988 for crisis support. Emergency help