Important but Neglected: Job Description of Community Health Workers in the Eastern Cape: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Introduction The role of community health workers (CHWs) in improving health system dynamics in developed and developing countries is gaining global attention. Because they connect the community to the health system, knowing their roles is crucial. This study explores CHWs' perceptions on their job description and activities, challenges, and the relevance of their roles. Methods This qualitative descriptive study included 10 interviews and 13 focus groups of CHWs. A semi-structured interview guide was used. Atlas.i was used to perform thematic content analysis. Results CHWs educated and advocated for health issues like HIV, TB, and healthy lifestyles. CHWs experience discrimination, assault susceptibility, lack of training and skill, local dialect constraint, and distrust. CHWs believed their services were needed and valued by their communities. Overall, CHWs were satisfied with their jobs and applauded the program. Conclusion The findings showed that CHWs are aware of their duties and perform them with enthusiasm and commitment regardless of challenges they face, and they are appreciated by the communities they serve. Our findings have implications for enhancing CHW program practise, policies, and future research recommendations, underlining the need of addressing the issues experienced by the clients and communities they served, since this impacts the quality of their work.