Project MATCH: training for a promotora intervention.

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Health Disparities
• Community Health Worker Interventions

Background:

• Community health workers (CHWs), known as promotoras de salud, are vital for effective health interventions.
• Existing research often overlooks the long-term impact of CHW training on work performance.
• The need for continuous training and support for CHWs is frequently unaddressed in current literature.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the training and evaluation strategies for a promotora-led diabetes self-management intervention.
• To assess the effectiveness of initial versus ongoing training for CHWs in a clinical trial setting.

Main Methods:

• The study involved the Mexican American Trial of Community Health Workers (MATCH), a clinical trial.
• A multicomponent training program was developed, including initial and ongoing training phases for promotoras.
• Multiple evaluation methods were used to assess promotora knowledge and competency over time.

Main Results:

• Initial training established a foundational knowledge and skill set for the promotoras.
• Ongoing training proved essential for addressing both intervention-specific and personal challenges faced by CHWs.
• Sustained competency in intervention delivery was observed with continued training.

Conclusions:

• Promotora interventions necessitate robust initial training programs.
• Ongoing training and regular evaluation are critical for the success and sustainability of CHW programs.
• Continuous support helps CHWs navigate complexities and enhances intervention effectiveness.