1052: Strengthening Access to Care: Community Health Workers, Medicaid, and Rural Health

Community health workers (CHWs) play a critical role in bridging the gap between health systems and the communities they serve, especially in rural and underserved areas. In this episode, ASTHO Senior Director of Population Health, Alex Kearly, explains who CHWs are, how they build trust and address both health and social needs, and why Medicaid reimbursement can help make these roles sustainable. The conversation also explores the unique access challenges facing rural communities, from provider shortages to hospital closures, and the policy tools states can use to respond, including telehealth, workforce initiatives, and systems-of-care models. Looking ahead to 2026, the episode highlights what states should watch as new federal rural health programs begin to take shape.

Policy Trends Shaping Access to Care in 2026 | ASTHO

Braiding and Layering Funding to Address the Social Determinants of Health | ASTHO

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CMS Announces $50 Billion in Awards to Strengthen Rural Health in All 50 States | CMS