Training the Trainees: A Multilingual Community Health Workers’ led Breast Health Project at Faith-based Centers in Milwaukee, WI.

Abstract

Introduction Preventive cancer screening rates are suboptimal among underserved populations, including immigrants and refugees. Factors contributing to low cancer screening rates span the spectrum of social determinants of health, including cultural aspects, language, and access to transportation. Methods In an attempt to address these, in the city of Milwaukee, WI, we conducted a patient navigation project with multilingual community workers (CHWs) who functioned as liaisons and successfully coordinated monthly breast health workshops that promoted the uptake of screening mammograms. #Results The program reached 188 women with no prior mammogram in the past 2-5 years, with a screening uptake of 100% among the insured and 80% among the uninsured. The CHW-led program also provided job training to at least six CHWs, three of whom continue to work/volunteer at organizations and others are in higher education. Conclusions Herein, we report the development of CHW training, focusing on various teaching methods and learning styles of multilingual women in collaboration with faith-based centers.