Medicaid Coverage of Community Health Worker (CHW)/Community Health Representative (CHR) Services
Through the process of a state plan amendment Michigan Medicaid established coverage criteria for community health worker (CHR)/community health representatives (CHR) services as a component of Medicaid services effective for dates of service on and after January 1, 2024. Community Health Worker services are provided as preventive services pursuant to 42 CFR Section 440.130(c).
MiCHWA wants to thank the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services for their work in creating this policy. MDHHS has shared that they received over 300 comments regarding this policy, and we believe their efforts to incorporate stakeholder feedback are well-reflected in the policy.
We also want to extend our gratitude to everyone who participated in conversations with MiCHWA as we developed recommendations during the public comment period, and those of you who submitted comments on behalf of yourselves or your organization. Your voices are incredibly valuable as we work toward building a sustainable and thriving CHW workforce in the state of Michigan.
Explore our Crosswalk of Proposed and Final Policy to witness the impact of your input.
You may also review comment(s) to the MDHHS Behavioral and Physical Health and Aging Services Administration relative to Project Number 2332-CHW that were considered in the preparation of the final publication, Consultation Summary Project Number 2332-CHW.
Resources:
2026 CHW Employer Report
2026 CHW Employer Report
COMMUNITY HEALTH WORKER SURVEY 2023: FINAL EVALUATION REPORT
2023 Community Health Worker Survey
Surveying the landscape of Community Health Workers (CHWs) in Michigan reveals three key themes. Firstly, concerns about low pay and limited upward mobility are prevalent among CHWs. Secondly, job insecurity and emotional burnout are significant challenges, with over half reporting funding security concerns and a substantial number grappling with burnout. Thirdly, the survey highlights the diverse nature of CHW roles, showcasing variations in caseloads and counties served. Notably, 87% of CHWs are women, with a little over half identifying as White and approximately one-third identified as Black, nearly all reported having some post-high school education. The report offers valuable insights into CHW experiences and challenges.
Explore the Full Report or View 2023 CHW Survey Results At A Glance.
The 2023 Community Health Worker Survey is the second statewide survey of CHWs in Michigan conducted by the Michigan Community Health Worker Alliance (MiCHWA) with support from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) and its Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) grant funding.
Previous Community Health Worker Surveys:
COMMUNITY HEALTH WORKER EMPLOYER SURVEY 2022: FINAL EVALUATION REPORT
MiCHWA has conducted Community Health Worker (CHW) Employer surveys biennially since 2014, with funding support from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services.
One key finding from the 2022 CHW Employer survey underscores a positive trend in employer sentiments. While funding uncertainty remains a top concern, the survey reveals a noteworthy decline in overall worries related to program sustainability. This includes funding uncertainty, finding qualified CHWs, staff turnover, and support for the CHW role. In 2022, a smaller portion of programs expressed concerns compared to both 2018 and 2020, signaling a positive shift in the landscape. Particularly encouraging is the fact that 27% of programs reported having no concerns in 2022, a substantial increase from the 6% reported in 2020.
Shape the Future: Join Our Policy Workgroup Today!
Policy Work Group
The Policy Work Group seeks to identify and develop sustainable policies and financing mechanisms for CHWs in Michigan.
This group meets on the third Wednesday of each month from 4:00pm – 5:00pm.
Chair: Ryan Grinnell-Ackerman, InterCare Community Health Network; CHW Co-Chair: Open
