Overcoming Barriers: Integrating Community Health Workers into Clinical Settings for Better Patient Care

In May 2025, a study titled “Barriers and Facilitators to the Implementation of a Health-Related Social Needs Screening and Referral Intervention in the Bronx” appeared in the *Journal of Primary Care & Community Health*. Researchers explored how Community Health Workers (CHWs) can effectively connect patients with their social needs.

They conducted interviews with CHWs, program staff, and clinicians from several clinics. These discussions focused on the challenges and successes experienced in the integration of CHWs into healthcare teams, using a method called the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research.

The study found that while clinicians welcomed the CHWs and the referral program, they often felt pressed for time during patient appointments. This pressure made thorough screenings and referrals difficult. Although CHWs were seen as essential advocates, their roles were sometimes unclear, leading to confusion among patients and clinicians alike. High-speed environments, especially in emergency departments, complicated these relationships further.

Interestingly, clinics that had strong leaders and clearly defined roles for CHWs managed to integrate them more successfully. This suggests that effective communication and structure are vital for collaboration in healthcare settings.

Researchers concluded that while CHWs are crucial in addressing health-related social needs, their successful integration relies heavily on overcoming logistical obstacles and improving education about their roles.

Statistics from a recent survey highlight this issue. According to the National Association of Community Health Centers, about 50% of health centers reported challenges related to staff workloads that hinder effective patient care. This reinforces the need for solutions in work processes and team dynamics.

As healthcare continues to evolve, acknowledging the roles of CHWs could lead to more comprehensive patient care. Strengthening these connections can ultimately contribute to better health outcomes across communities.

For more details, you can explore the study further here: journals.sagepub.com.

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