Inland Empire Health Plan celebrated the first graduating class from its Community Health Worker Residency (CHW) Program at its Rancho Cucamonga headquarters.
Nine CHWs were highlighted for completing the program, which lasted a few weeks and was aimed at reducing the barriers to accessing health services in marginalized communities.
The IEHP CHW program was launched in March. The first cohort began their studies on 6 May. Belinda Hernandez, Community Behavioral Healthcare Manager at IEHP, explained that CHWs received six weeks of training in person, followed by three months of field practice.
CHWs receive regular training to stay current on new resources. The CHWs will also be paired up with a community provider to address chronic illnesses, preventative healthcare needs, and health-related needs in Riverside and San Bernardino Counties.
Astin Medina Caranza, April Watkins Serena Hong Jackiie tovar-Sandoval Princess Egiebor Dre Graves Lizette Olmedo were also part of the inaugural CHW cohort. The next cohort will begin their studies around August 21.
For more information on the CHW benefit, go to www.dhcs.ca.gov/community-health-workers.