What is the role of community health workers in disaster response?

The role of community health workers in disaster response is primarily to bridge gaps in communication and provide localized support. During a disaster, they serve as vital links between affected communities and healthcare services, facilitating the flow of information and ensuring that the needs of the community are met. They understand the cultural and social dynamics of the areas they serve, which enables them to effectively address the specific needs of individuals and families during emergencies.

Community health workers can help disseminate important information about available resources, health services, and safety protocols to residents. They also assist in coordinating support efforts, such as connecting individuals with mental health services or nutritional assistance, and advocating for the needs of their community in broader disaster response planning.

While providing medical care is crucial in emergencies, community health workers are not typically trained to deliver medical treatment at the level of healthcare professionals. Similarly, enforcing laws regarding emergency services and organizing educational seminars are important functions, but they are not central to the immediate disaster response tasks that community health workers are trained to perform. Their primary focus is on supporting community members directly through communication and resource navigation, emphasizing the importance of localized support during such critical times.