CHW Code of Ethics
- Identify the core values and principles of the CHW Code of Ethics and their role in ethical decision-making.
- Apply the four articles of the Code to analyze and address ethical challenges in CHW practice.
The CHW Code of Ethics
CHWs are entrusted with upholding the highest standards of excellence, and they face challenging ethical questions frequently. The CHW Code of Ethics — based on the core values adopted by the American Association of Community Health Workers — provides a framework for CHWs, supervisors, and care teams to navigate ethical challenges.
The Code encompasses common principles applicable to all healthcare professionals — social justice, positive health, and dignity — but it may not address every situation you'll encounter.
The four articles
The Four Articles
Article 1
Responsibilities in the Delivery of Care.
Article 1: Responsibilities in the Delivery of Care
CHWs build trust and community capacity by improving the health and social welfare of those they serve. When conflicts arise, CHWs give priority to issues that promote wellness for the individual or client.
Six Provisions
Article 2: Promotion of Equitable Relationships
CHWs focus on the wellbeing of the whole community. They value the expertise each community member possesses.
Five Provisions
Watch: Cultural Humility
The professor in the video references Maya Angelou: "I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel." How does this quote relate to cultural humility and CHW work?
What's a moment in your own life when how someone made you feel mattered more than what they said or did?
Apply the Code: Help Leila
Leila is a recent immigrant from a Middle Eastern country. She's hesitant about Western medical care. Can you assist her while respecting her cultural values and ensuring she receives equitable treatment?
Article 3: Interactions With Other Service Providers
CHWs maintain professional partnerships with other service providers to serve the community effectively.
Three Provisions
Article 4: Professional Rights and Responsibilities
The CHW profession is dedicated to excellence in promoting community wellbeing. CHWs uphold the principles and integrity of the profession.
Seven Provisions
Under Article 1, what should a CHW do when an issue falls outside their scope of practice and training?
Match each article of the CHW Code of Ethics to what it primarily addresses.
A client shares that an employer policy will offend and harm members of the community a CHW serves. Which Article 2 provision applies?
🌟 Lesson takeaways
The CHW Code of Ethics is a four-part framework. Article 1 outlines responsibilities to promote client wellness and maintain professional integrity in the delivery of care. Article 2 describes equitable relationships of trust and respect with clients and communities. Article 3 outlines professional relationships with other providers. Article 4 details the professional rights of CHWs and their responsibility to strive for excellence. The Code provides guidelines but doesn't cover everything — when specific guidance is missing, reflect on your ethical obligations and consult your care team.
Great work! At the end of this module, you'll join a live discussion with your cohort and an instructor to work through ethical challenges together. We'll see you there.