HPAC Scholar's Day 2019 CHW_Assessment_Key_Findings | Page 45

What Employers and Other Stakeholders Want and Need in the Next 5 Years Key informants and employers noted that it will be very important to the sustainability of the profession to clearly define the profession in Ohio, demonstrate the evidence-based value, return on investment, and outcomes of CHWs, and address funding sustainability. It is clear from the informants that there is wide variability in what measures are collected as well as little sharing across the state. A mechanism for collecting and reporting CHW data is needed in Ohio as well as to establish the business case for CHWs and reimbursement of services. One interesting finding from the focus groups was that perhaps current methods of obtaining data on CHW program outcomes are flawed. One participant noted that her employers think that their CHW program outcomes are poor because of patient satisfaction scores. However, the participant pointed out that the way in which the patient satisfaction survey question is worded regarding the CHW program is flawed. At her organization clients are asked about their experience with “case management” rather than with their CHW. The participant stated if the client was directly asked about their experience with their CHW, rather than about case management, the results of the survey would be much different. This point should be considered when employers are measuring CHW outcomes. The wording of questions should be evaluated with care to ensure that surveys measure what is intended. Many key informants and employers also noted that sustainable funding mechanisms need to be identified for reimbursement of CHW services, and CHWs need to be paid a competitive wage in order for the profession to be sustainable as many noted that a low salary was one of the top reasons for leaving the profession. Finally, many key informants and employers would like to see CHWs fully integrated and accepted in the health system. What CHWs Want and Need in the Next 5 Years CHWs reported that they want and need the following things in order to advance and have a sustainable profession in Ohio: ■ ■ Clearly defined scope of practice in Ohio with possible title protection ■ ■ Have the CHW profession and role known by all providers and professionals in Ohio (i.e., starting with provider training on the role of the CHW) ■ ■ Improved training that reflects what they are doing in the field and self-care needs ■ ■ Improved continuing education opportunities, including an annual CHW conference that focuses on CHW professional development ■ ■ Improved connectivity of CHWs across the state ■ ■ A centralized source for CHW information on training, certification, continuing education, and employment opportunities ■ ■ Stronger advocacy for the CHW profession in Ohio ■ ■ CHW representation on committees at OBN ■ ■ Improved salaries ■ ■ Improved employment opportunities that reflect the particular employment considerations of CHWs Finally, both CHWs and employers/ stakeholders noted that there is a need for a Discussion of Assessment Findings 39