There is substantial literature suggesting that community health workers (CHWs) are uniquely qualified to address health disparities. Thus it is essential that CHWs develop the competencies required to integrate into rapidly advancing health systems and organizations.

This article describes a mixed-methods study that included a literature review, a database analysis, a content analysis of competency lists, and key informant interviews to examine the qualities employers value when hiring CHWs and determine what new competencies CHWs need to meet workforce demands.