Can online learning solve the global health care capacity crisis? | HealthAffairs

Health care systems cannot be supported by the efforts of a few. But in many low- and middle-income countries worldwide, one medical specialist may be responsible for the health of millions. For many people in need, health care is simply unavailable. More community health workers (CHWs) are necessary to provide care where treatment is unavailable.

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CHWs are lay people or non-professional health personnel who provide focused health care in local communities. CHWs work with health ministries, NGOs, international organizations, and many other groups. From malaria to mental health, studies find that CHW interventions improve health and are cost-effective.

Many CHWs are employed as temporary workers. After projects end or funding runs out, many CHWs no longer work in a health care capacity, but they retain the skills (e.g., data collection) and knowledge (nutrition counseling) they have gained is unknown.

Poor retention leads to poorer health outcomes for populations served, higher program costs, and threatens program sustainability. This article analyze interesting possibilities to deal with this issues and transforming a threat into opportunity.