Document Type

Capstone Experience

Graduation Date

5-2023

Degree Name

Master of Public Health

First Committee Member

Sharon Medcalf, PhD

Second Committee Member

Teresa Barry Hultquist, PhD, RN, PHCNS-BC, NE-BC

Third Committee Member

Rachel Lookadoo, JD

Abstract

As the frequency and magnitude of disasters worldwide continues to rise, so too does the devastation that follows. This devastation extends to the whole community. In guidance put forward by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), emergency preparedness must be represented in and reflective of the whole community, but marginalized groups or segments of the population may be left out of the conversation. Community Health Workers (CHW)s serve as a trusted liaisons and community advocates within the health care landscape. That landscape, as recent events demonstrate, includes emergency preparedness and response. This literature review is designed to assess available publications on the utilization of CHWs in emergency preparedness and/or emergency response. Four themes were identified in the literature review: response, training, political and investment. Assessments grouped by thematic type included author, title, study method, unique CHW term or phrase, and key findings. Additionally, eight articles were evaluated based on their COVID-19 focus and findings, their assessment included: CHW duties, challenges, and recommendations. A detailed narrative analysis, discussion and recommendation is provided on each theme.

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