Us Congress House Bill HR1389

Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 7/25/24
• Refer: 7/25/24

Caption

Supporting the designation of the week of August 26 through August 30, 2024, as the second annual "National Community Health Worker Awareness Week".

Impact

This resolution highlights the ongoing efforts to promote workforce development within the public health sector, acknowledging the historical significance and diverse backgrounds of community health workers. By commemorating this week, the resolution seeks to empower community health workers, advocating for their roles in connecting individuals to necessary resources while addressing the broader issues of health disparities and access to care. This recognition could potentially lead to increased funding and support for community health initiatives.

Summary

House Resolution 1389, introduced on July 25, 2024, designates the week of August 26 through August 30 as the second annual 'National Community Health Worker Awareness Week'. The resolution's intent is to raise awareness of the critical role that community health workers play in improving health outcomes, particularly in underserved communities. Community health workers are recognized as trusted members of the communities they serve, serving as liaisons between healthcare services and the public, thus facilitating access to essential health and social services.

Contention

While generally well-received, the resolution may still encounter discussions around the adequacy of current funding levels for community health programs. Critics might argue that simply acknowledging the contribution of community health workers is not enough; there is a need for actionable measures to ensure sustainable funding and fair compensation. The effectiveness of these workers in diverse health areas, including maternal health and chronic disease management, necessitates commitment from both state and federal entities to bolster programs that initially established their vital roles.