The Role of Community Health Workers in Addressing Diabetes

Across the country and locally in Vermont, there has been an increase in recognition of the effectiveness of Community Health Workers (CHWs) in supporting individuals with diabetes. As trusted members of the communities they work with, CHWs are well suited to provide diabetes support and offer ongoing care in addressing social and health issues. Organizations have increased efforts to integrate CHWs in the delivery of diabetes support, but there is a need to increase awareness about how to successfully expand the role of CHWs in addressing diabetes.

Learning Objectives:

• Define types, symptoms, risk factors and complications of diabetes
• Discuss the rate of Vermonters with Diabetes
• Identify the roles that Community Health Workers can play in diabetes prevention and control