By Emma White | UM Legislative News Service, University of Montana School of Journalism

HELENA – Supporters of a bill to create a new professional certification for community health workers told a House committee on March 28 that it would help Montanans get quality healthcare in underserved communities.

A community health worker is a volunteer or paid worker with intimate knowledge of their community and of public health, who helps support community members and connect them with healthcare resources. Rep. Ed Buttrey, R-Great Falls, who sponsors House Bill 850, said Montana’s medical facilities are turning to community health workers to help meet patients’ needs as workforce shortages continue.

“A CHW certification is the first step in recognizing the value of this type of professional, and ensuring to employers that the individual is well trained and has the competencies to interact one-on-one with patients,” Buttrey said.

In addition to licensing, the bill would also allow community health workers to be reimbursed through Medicaid. 

Margaret Hammersla, a nurse practitioner and cancer researcher, testified in support of the bill as a private citizen. She said it is an important step that could help rural citizens access care within their homes and communities.

“By licensing and reimbursing community health workers, this legislation could make more accessible and or make community health workers more accessible and effective,” Hammersla said. “Without it, rural communities and community support organizations such as Cancer Support Community Montana really struggle to provide these important services.”

There were no opponents at the bill’s first hearing on March 28.

Emma White is a reporter with the UM Legislative News Service, a partnership of the University of Montana School of Journalism, the Montana Broadcasters Association, the Montana Newspaper Association and the Greater Montana Foundation. White can be reached at emma.white@umconnect.umt.edu.