Reporting of Community Health Workers in the Uniform Data System
With Community Health Workers (CHWs) identified as a unique staffing category in the Uniform Data System (UDS) for the first time in 2016, the number of FTEs reported has been much lower than expected (879 FTEs across 1367 grantees). Although in 2017, a slight increase was shown (1,130.36 across 1373 grantees), these figures appear inconsistent with the anecdotal evidence of widespread utilization of CHWs in Health Center settings. These inconsistencies may reflect unclear guidance on how to accurately identify and report the work of CHWs.
The goal of this tool is to provide resources that will help Health Centers to:
- Explore common CHW titles and roles
- Identify staff performing duties that may align with the CHW profession and should be reported under the CHW line in UDS
- Assess CHW knowledge, skills, and abilities by using the CHW Core Competencies checklist
- Review CHW training opportunities
- Access a list of UDS resources developed by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA)
- Access a list of CHW clinical integration resources
Ultimately, the proper identification, reporting, and training of CHWs is key to increase the accuracy of the national representation of their work.
©️ MHP Salud 2020
MHP Salud has over 35 years of experience implementing CHW programs and training organizations looking to start and/or strengthen their own CHW programs. Visit our CHW Training & Consulting Services page to learn more about how we can help.