Costs and cost-effectiveness of integrated horizontal community health worker programmes in low- and middle-income countries (2015-2024): a scoping literature review.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Community health workers (CHWs) play a vital role in delivering primary health care in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), addressing multiple diseases through horizontal programmes. Despite their effectiveness, there is a US$4.4 billion annual funding gap for professional CHW programmes. Some countries have adopted these programmes, while others require stronger economic evidence to justify investments. This study updates a 2015 review, critically examining the costs and cost-effectiveness of horizontal CHW programmes in LMICs.

Methods

A scoping review was conducted using 10 databases and grey literature, covering studies published between August 2015 and July 2024. Search terms related to 'Community Health Workers' and 'Economic Evaluations' were used. Stu

SUBMITTER: O' Donovan J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12306334 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature