The Community Health Worker Research & Resource Center (CHW-RRC) is building a growing community-informed research agenda to deepen understandings of the CHW workforce and inform strategies that support its integration and sustainability in New York State (NYS) and beyond.

Clinical Integration of CHWs in New York State

In partnership with a robust Community Advisory Board (CAB) of CHWs and CHW providers from across NYS, the CHW-RRC conducted a qualitative study to assess facilitators and barriers to the integration of CHWs into primary care in NYS. Through focus groups and interviews with CHWs, clinical and community-based providers who employ CHWs, and healthcare consumers who have worked with CHWs, we learned about the ways that CHW clinical integration is working well and where it can be improved. The CAB informed study material development, recruitment, and analysis, and was actively involved in presentation of findings. This study (2024-2025) provided actionable insights for CHWs, CHW employers, health institutions, and policymakers seeking to more effectively integrate CHWs into primary care and community health settings. The study was funded by the New York Health Foundation. The principal investigator is Amy Freeman, PhD.

View the final report.

Landscape Analysis of the CHW Workforce and CHW Employers in New York State

This landscape analysis (2025-2026) aims to better understand the composition, location, and scope of work of the CHW workforce in NYS as well as the training curricula, program models, and funding mechanisms utilized by CHW employers. With guidance from advisory boards consisting of CHWs and CHW employers, this project aims to gain insight into the landscape of the CHW workforce across New York by conducting the first statewide survey of CHW and CHW employers -- providing a comprehensive overview of workforce roles, employment practices, and organizational needs. The surveys will be supplemented by CHW-led interviews investigating CHW identity and opportunities for engagement in workforce advocacy. Findings will generate evidence to guide workforce development strategies and policy priorities for CHW programs across the State. The study is funded by the New York Health Foundation. The principal investigator is Amy Freeman, PhD.