Boundaries of Care: Community Health Workers in the United States

Community health workers (CHWs) are an often invisible facet of the healthcare workforce that participate in nonclinical services to enhance the health and well-being of their communities. Ryan I. Logan's book Boundaries of Care examines the boundaries of and barriers to care, professionalization, burnout, and self-care, and the critical impacts of CHW advocacy.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 15 September 2023
Publisher: Lexington Books

In his book "Boundaries of Care," Ryan I. Logan delves into the profound and often overlooked realm of community health workers (CHWs). These dedicated individuals, who are a vital part of the healthcare workforce, engage in nonclinical services to improve the health and well-being of their communities beyond the confines of clinics and social service agencies. Logan meticulously explores the boundaries and barriers that shape the experiences of CHWs, their interactions with clients, the challenges of professionalization, the effects of burnout and self-care, and the significant impact of CHW advocacy. Through firsthand accounts and a seamless integration of theory, Logan presents a comprehensive examination of the key challenges faced by this workforce and their remarkable potential to promote even greater well-being within their communities.

The insights and recommendations gathered from the participants featured in "Boundaries of Care" hold immense value for both CHW programs in the United States and internationally. These findings can serve as a guiding framework for policymakers, healthcare providers, and community leaders as they strive to enhance the effectiveness and sustainability of CHW programs. By acknowledging the unique perspectives and experiences of CHWs, we can better understand the complexities of healthcare delivery and develop innovative strategies to address the healthcare needs of underserved populations.

One of the key themes explored in "Boundaries of Care" is the complex interplay between boundaries and care. Logan highlights how CHWs navigate the delicate balance between providing care to their clients while maintaining their own boundaries and well-being. He emphasizes the importance of self-care and burnout prevention for CHWs, recognizing that their work can be emotionally and physically demanding. Logan suggests strategies such as peer support, supervision, and training programs to support CHWs in managing their workload and promoting their own well-being.

Another critical aspect of "Boundaries of Care" is the role of advocacy in promoting the health and well-being of communities. Logan explores how CHWs use their knowledge and experience to advocate for policies and resources that address social determinants. He highlights the importance of building partnerships with policymakers, healthcare providers, and community organizations to create sustainable and effective CHW programs. Logan also emphasizes the need for CHWs to be recognized and valued as essential members of the healthcare workforce, with appropriate training, support, and compensation.

In addition to examining the challenges and opportunities faced by CHWs, "Boundaries of Care" offers valuable insights into the broader healthcare landscape. Logan discusses the historical context of CHW programs and their evolution in response to the changing healthcare needs of communities. He explores the role of CHWs in addressing social determinants. He also examines the impact of healthcare disparities on the health and well-being of communities and the role of CHWs in reducing these disparities.

Overall, "Boundaries of Care" is a groundbreaking book that sheds light on the lived experience of community health workers and their critical role in promoting the health and well-being of communities. By providing a comprehensive examination of the boundaries and barriers that shape the experiences of CHWs, their relationships with clients, issues of professionalization, impacts of burnout and self-care, and the critical impacts of CHW advocacy, Logan offers a valuable contribution to the field of healthcare. The insights and recommendations gathered from the participants in this book can inform and shape CHW programs both in the United States and abroad, fostering even greater well-being and improving the health outcomes of underserved populations.

Weight: 363g
Dimension: 231 x 154 x 14 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781793629487