CHW-CRE Launches Innovative AI Learning Series for Community Health Workers

Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming healthcare and human services at an unprecedented pace. But while AI is moving fast, the expert community knowledge held by Community Health Workers (CHWs) is not yet helping to shape these technologies.

To help address this gap, the CHW Center for Research and Evaluation (CHW-CRE) launched Thinking Critically, Acting Effectively: The Role of AI in CHW Practice—an essential skills learning  series designed to equip CHWs with the knowledge and critical thinking skills to use AI effectively in their work while leading advocacy for ethical and equitable AI use across organizations and communities.

Before developing the series, the CHW-CRE team conducted an environmental scan to better understand the existing literature and training opportunities related to AI and CHW practice. We were surprised to find very few U.S.-focused publications specifically addressing this intersection. Our scan highlighted a significant opportunity for CHWs to help shape the future of AI rather than simply adapt to it.

Co-developed with Erika Gaitan, Director of Impact and Innovation at Health Resources in Action (HRiA) and a national leader in AI governance, the series is grounded in the latest evidence-based, community-first practices. Through brief, participatory workshops, CHWs explore practical applications of AI in:

• Case management and care coordination

• Advocacy and community organizing

• Health education and digital misinformation

• Research and evaluation

Throughout the series, participants examine ethics, bias, privacy, digital equity, and responsible AI governance. Sessions reinforce that AI should strengthen—not replace—the trusted relationships at the heart of Community Health Worker practice.

The response from the CHW field has been overwhelmingly positive, with participants expressing a strong interest in guidance on how AI can support their work while preserving the values that define the profession.

This learning series is just the beginning. CHW-CRE is committed to ensuring that Community Health Workers are not only prepared to navigate an AI-enabled future but are also recognized as essential leaders and vital lived-experience advocates in AI development. . As AI continues to evolve, we believe the voices, expertise, and lived experience of CHWs must help guide how these technologies are developed, implemented, and evaluated so they advance health equity and strengthen communities.