Supporting Community Health Workers in Arkansas
In December 2025, the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) announced a significant boost for community health workers (CHWs) in the state. With a $375,000 grant from the Arkansas Office of Skills Development, UAMS aims to train 75 CHWs over the next 18 months, particularly in rural counties where healthcare access is often limited.
According to Rosalinda Medrano, assistant director of community programs, “Community health workers play a crucial role, especially in rural areas. This funding will help us extend our efforts to improve health access across Arkansas.”
The Growing Importance of CHWs
In recent years, CHWs have proven to be indispensable, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Research from the American Public Health Association indicates that employing CHWs can reduce hospital visits, saving both healthcare systems and patients significant costs. The role of CHWs was formalized in Arkansas through the Community Health Worker Act, which now allows these professionals to be compensated under Medicaid plans.
Innovative Training Efforts
UAMS leads the way with the nation’s first CHW apprentice program, cutting the training period from two years down to just one. This effort has resulted in over 430 trained CHWs since 2022, showcasing a commitment to rapidly addressing the workforce needs in health communities. As Pearl McElfish, Ph.D., division director at UAMS noted, “This initiative creates career opportunities and innovative pathways to enhance health across communities.”
Focus on Maternal Health
In addition to general health worker training, UAMS is set to launch a perinatal CHW certification. This program will focus on the unique needs of pregnant and postpartum women, ensuring that this vulnerable population receives the specialized support they require.
Collaborative Approach
UAMS is not alone in this mission. They are collaborating with various organizations, including the Arkansas Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics and the Doula Alliance of Arkansas, to expand their training programs. This partnership approach enhances the efficiency and reach of training efforts, reflecting a community-wide commitment to improving health outcomes.
In summary, the new funding and training programs are pivotal for Arkansas’s healthcare landscape. By investing in community health workers, UAMS is at the forefront of a movement designed to improve health equity and accessibility across the state.
To learn more about UAMS and their initiatives, you can visit UAMS Community Health.
