The Role of Community Health Workers (CHWs) in Addressing Health Disparities in Low-Income Immigrant Communities: A Rapid Scoping Review

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Publication Date

4-8-2026

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Presentation: 25:04

Abstract

Background: Community Health Workers (CHWs) are increasingly recognized as a key strategy to address health disparities among underserved populations, particularly low-income immigrant communities in the United States.

Objective: This rapid scoping review aimed to examine the contributions and impacts of CHW-led interventions on healthcare access and health outcomes among low-income immigrant populations.

Methods: Following PRISMA guidelines, a rapid scoping review was conducted. PubMed and Scopus were searched on March 13, 2026. Resultant articles were screened and evaluated based on predefined inclusion criteria. Data were extracted only from studies included in the final sample and synthesized using a narrative approach.

Results: A total of 151 articles were identified and screened by title and abstract, with 30 undergoing full-text reviews. Nine studies met inclusion criteria. Included studies focused on CHW-led or supported interventions targeting immigrant populations and reported outcomes related to healthcare access or health outcomes. CHW-led interventions demonstrated consistent improvements in healthcare access, including increased screening uptake, improved care navigation, and enhanced patient engagement. Significant improvements in health outcomes were also observed, particularly in chronic disease management, preventive health behaviors, and mental health support. Common intervention components included culturally and linguistically tailored education, patient navigation, care coordination, and community-based support. Despite these benefits, key implementation challenges included sustainable funding limitations, variability in training, integration into healthcare teams, and policy and reimbursement barriers.

Conclusion: CHW-led interventions are an effective and adaptable strategy for improving healthcare access and health outcomes among low-income immigrant populations. Expanding and sustainably integrating CHWs into healthcare systems is essential to advancing health equity and addressing persistent disparities in underserved communities.

Language

English

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