What types of organizations employ CHWs?
Community health workers (CHWs) are employed in many different environments. According to a 2024 survey of Illinois CHWs, they work in community-based organizations, health systems, hospitals, and clinics, including those with medical and dental services. CHWs also work in behavioral health organizations, academic institutions, social service organizations, independent medical practices, health plans, and faith-based organizations.
How do I integrate CHWs into our health team?
- The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) created a general framework to help public health professionals integrate CHWs into health care and related settings. You can find the CDC's "Community Health Worker (CHW) Inclusion Checklist" here https (CHW Inclusion Checklist) [And/or refer to IDPH-funded CHW Campaign TA resources on integration when available.]
- Illinois organizations that offer support and resources to employers on CHW integration are listed under the Resources Section. You can find key organizations here. [Link]
What is the Community Health Worker (CHW) Registry?
The CHW Registry is a searchable database of certified CHWs in Illinois. The CHW Registry allows employers to verify the certification status of prospective or current CHW employees. It also allows the Medicaid program to verify current certification status for reimbursement for CHW services. You can find the CHW Registry here.
Medicaid and Medicare for CHW Services
Medicaid and Medicare reimbursement is available only for CHWs whose certification is active on the dates of service.
Medicaid
- In [Month 2026,] the Illinois Medicaid program received federal approval to include CHW services in the Medicaid State Plan. Check the most recent Medicaid Physician Fee Schedule for Community Health Worker Services, codes, and reimbursement rates.
- To bill Medicaid, the organization must be enrolled in the Medicaid program and have billing capability or an arrangement with an organization that can bill on their behalf.
Medicare
- In 2024, the Medicare program began formal support of CHWs as an integral part of the health care workforce. Medicare issued billing codes for specific CHW services that Illinois providers may bill for Medicare enrollees. Check the most recent Medicare Physician Fee Schedule for Community Health Integration (CHI) Services, codes, and reimbursement rates.
- To bill Medicare, the organization must be enrolled in the Medicare program and have billing capability or an arrangement with an organization that can bill on their behalf.
Apprenticeship Programs
For Employers: You may want to consider an apprenticeship...
- Apprenticeship programs offer many benefits to health and health care employers. They help address workforce shortages and offer affordable ways to train new employees. Employers gain specifically trained employees in their organizational practices and culture, reducing recruitment costs and staff turnover. These programs enable employers to “grow their own” workforce. Apprenticeships often increase diversity in the workforce by creating an accessible pathway to health careers for people from communities who may have faced barriers to traditional education.
- Refer to www.apprenticeship.gov [TBD: More specific link for CHW employers.]
For CHWs: You may want to consider an apprenticeship...
- Apprenticeships provide a chance to gain high-quality training while earning money at the same time. This makes it easier to advance in a career regardless of economic background. Apprentices also benefit from relationships with mentors and can build professional networks for the future. As they learn new skills, apprentices earn credentials that position them for stable careers.
- Refer to www.apprenticeship.gov [TBD: More specific link for prospective CHWs.]