Bridging the Gap: How Community Health Workers Help Expand Access to Palliative Care

Across the United States, many communities face deep-rooted barriers to receiving compassionate, timely palliative care. Whether it’s due to systemic mistrust, lack of culturally appropriate resources, or limited access to care, these challenges often result in patients missing the support they need at the most vulnerable time in their lives.

But there’s hope—and it often starts with a familiar face from the neighborhood: the Community Health Worker (CHW).

Who Are CHWs—and Why Do They Matter?

Community Health Workers are trained frontline professionals who typically come from the very communities they serve. They understand the language, culture, and lived experiences of their neighbors, which makes them powerful advocates and connectors in healthcare.

When it comes to palliative care, CHWs are uniquely positioned to open doors—especially for patients who may not trust or understand the traditional medical system.

💡 How CHWs Are Changing Palliative Care Access

A recent study explored how CHWs could be integrated into palliative care teams that serve African American cancer patients. Here’s what we’re learning:

1. Building Trust Where It Matters Most

CHWs help bridge the cultural gap between medical professionals and patients by being present, listening without judgment, and speaking in a way that feels personal and respectful. This trust is essential in conversations about life, death, and dignity.

2. Making Care Understandable

Palliative care can be a confusing or even intimidating term. CHWs help explain services like symptom relief, emotional support, and advance care planning in ways that are easy to understand and culturally sensitive.

3. Helping Patients Plan Ahead

End-of-life conversations can be difficult. CHWs provide a gentle, steady hand in helping patients discuss advance directives, care preferences, and family involvement—on their own terms.

4. Eliminating Logistical Barriers

From scheduling appointments to navigating insurance, CHWs help patients overcome everyday challenges that might otherwise delay or prevent care.

Why Collaboration Works

When health centers and palliative care agencies collaborate with CHWs, the result is a more inclusive, compassionate model that uplifts entire communities. It ensures that care is not just available—but accessible, understandable, and deeply human.

At the Art of Palliative Care, we believe in care that honors every story. By integrating CHWs into our outreach and services, especially in underserved areas, we can improve the quality of life for patients and families while building trust that lasts.

Inspired by: "Community Health Workers Improving Palliative Care Access Among African American Cancer Patients"