Our Background

CHWs in Ontario serve as essential links between underserved populations and healthcare or social services, addressing critical gaps in care.

Despite their invaluable role, CHWs are a largely undervalued and underrecognized workforce. Their status as unregulated care providers (UCPs)  often negatively impacts their employment, work in the community, and compensation. This underscores the urgent need for initiatives that strengthen their role and provide them with the recognition and support they deserve.

Identifying the Gaps

  • Environmental Scan

    In 2023, we conducted an environmental scan that examined the skills requirements, employment opportunities and educational offerings in Ontario. This involved a comprehensive review of peer-reviewed and grey literature, an assessment of employment postings for CHW positions, and an analysis of post-secondary CHW programs in the region.

    Our findings revealed a significant lack of educational pathways that support CHWs in developing core skills requested by employers such as system navigation, community outreach and advocacy, program coordination, health education and a foundational knowledge of community health. Additionally, results highlighted a scarcity of programs and resources that enable CHWs to operate effectively in integrated care settings,  at the intersection of hospital and community-based systems.

Stay up to date

The Community Health and Social Medicine (CHASM) Care Worker Certificate Program offers a unique opportunity to gain advanced skills, advocate for your community, and strengthen healthcare equity.

Join Us