Community health workers is an umbrella term, according to the Arizona Department of Health. They are the people who are on the frontlines of public health, especially in rural areas and tribal communities. 

There’s an effort in the Legislature to create a voluntary certification for these workers. 

House Bill 2324 would lead to the creation of guidelines and training requirements for community health workers through the Arizona Department of Health.

Lisa Blue, with Adelante Health, testified before the health committee last Thursday about the important role health workers play in terms of reducing barriers and connecting patients to resources.

"Our team that includes community health workers has a demonstrated impact on outcomes with diabetes and other chronic disease and the population we serve," Blue said.

Rep. Heather Carter, who chairs the Health Committee, is behind the measure.

A similar effort failed during the last legislative session. HB 2324 moves to the rules committee.