What is a traditional health worker (THW)?
A traditional health worker (THW) is a public health worker who helps people stay healthy. They may work in your community, a clinic or a hospital. Some THWs may have gone through experiences like yours, so they understand what you’re dealing with.
A THW is:
- Trained and certified
- Part of your community
- Culturally sensitive
- Free for CareOregon members
What can a THW do for you?
THWs are trained to support you on your health care journey. They get to know you and your needs. They can:
- Help you understand your Oregon Health Plan benefits.
- Make sure all parts of your care work well together.
- Work with your case workers and others involved in your care.
- Help you find mental health or substance use treatment.
- Find rides to your appointments.
- Help you get food assistance.
What kinds of THWs are there?
There are five types of THWs. Each one helps in a different way.
Community health workers
Community health workers are public health workers who can help connect you with the health and social services you need.
Birth doulas
If you are pregnant, trained helpers called birth doulas can give personal, non-medical support to you and your family before, during and after birth.
Peer support specialists
Peer support specialists have personal experience with mental health or substance use. They can help you or your family if you're going through the same thing.
Peer wellness specialists
Peer wellness specialists also have personal experience with mental health conditions and get extra training. They help you get recovery services and stay healthy.
Personal health navigators
Personal health navigators help you understand your care and make choices that fit your needs.
How can you get help from a THW?
There are four ways to get started:
- Talk with your primary care provider team or your behavioral health provider.
- Connect with Peer support and wellness specialists in your community.
- Call our Customer Service
- Send an email to the CareOregon/Health Share of Oregon THW Liaison at: metrothw@careoregon.org
