Enhancing Community Health Worker Communication: Evaluating Simulation-Based Training in Motivational Interviewing

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Health Communication
• Behavioral Science

Background:

• Community health workers (CHWs) are vital for bridging healthcare gaps in underserved populations.
• Effective CHW practice relies on strong communication skills, including motivational interviewing (MI) for behavior change.
• MI helps individuals explore ambivalence and build self-motivation for health-related changes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of simulation-based training on CHW trainees' MI skills.
• To assess changes in CHW confidence in engaging diverse viewpoints and addressing misinformation.
• To determine the effectiveness of a one-day training program incorporating didactic and simulation methods.

Main Methods:

• A one-day simulation-based training session was delivered to 277 CHW trainees.
• Training focused on vaccine confidence, smoking cessation, and childhood obesity using MI techniques.
• Pre- and post-training surveys measured confidence in communication skills and MI application.

Main Results:

• Significant improvements in trainee confidence were observed across all assessed areas.
• The greatest confidence gains were in engaging individuals with differing viewpoints.
• Confidence also increased in applying MI techniques and using culturally appropriate resources to combat misinformation.

Conclusions:

• Simulation-based MI training is a promising strategy for enhancing CHW communication skills.
• Realistic role-play and feedback in training positively impact CHW confidence and readiness.
• Further practice and long-term evaluation are recommended to solidify skill development and impact.