Strong healthcare systems are built on collaboration
The Afya Maoni program—designed to amplify citizen feedback and improve healthcare services—wouldn’t be possible without the dedicated efforts of Healthcare Workers (HCWs) and Community Health Workers (CHWs). These professionals are the bridge between communities and the healthcare system, ensuring that citizen voices drive real improvements.
A common misunderstanding by the general public is that HCWs and CHWs perform the same function. We deep dive into their differences and how they empower citizen feedback – revealing the different roles they play.
Who Are Healthcare Workers (HCWs)?
Healthcare Workers (HCWs) are the doctors, nurses, clinical officers, and other facility-based staff who deliver medical services at hospitals, health centers, and dispensaries. They are the frontline of medical care. Their primary role is to diagnose, treat, and support patients in receiving the best possible care.
How HCWs support the Afya Maoni program:
- Encourage patient feedback – HCWs introduce patients to the Afya Maoni platform, explaining how their feedback can help improve healthcare services.
- Strengthen the feedback loop – By working with facility management, HCWs help turn data into action, ensuring that citizen input leads to tangible improvements within their work place where their institutional knowledge is key to addressing barriers.
“Afya Maoni helps us understand what patients need, what’s working, and where we can improve. This system gives us direct insight into our community’s experiences.” – Healthcare Worker, Tanga RegionHealthcare Workers (HCWs) are the doctors, nurses, clinical officers, and other facility-based staff who deliver medical services at hospitals, health centers, and dispensaries. They are the frontline of medical care. Their primary role is to diagnose, treat, and support patients in receiving the best possible care.
Who Are Community Health Workers (CHWs)?
Community Health Workers (CHWs) play a vital role in bridging the gap between healthcare facilities and the communities they serve. They are trusted members of the community who provide essential health education, conduct outreach, and connect people with care.
How CHWs Support the Afya Maoni program:
- Promoting awareness – CHWs educate community members about Afya Maoni, explaining how they can share feedback through the platform. For some female clients who may be apprehensive to share feedback, having a community healthcare work from their neighborhood can help build trust of the program.
- Supporting participation – By engaging with patients in their homes and communities, CHWs ensure that more voices are heard and encouraged to participate.
- Ensuring inclusivity – CHWs help reach underserved populations, ensuring that even those in remote areas can participate in healthcare improvements.
Why both roles are essential for Afya Maoni
Together, HCWs and CHWs ensure that citizen feedback is collected, understood, and used to improve healthcare services. While HCWs work within facilities, CHWs extend the program’s reach into communities, making sure no voice goes unheard.
The impact so far:
- More patients are engaging with the Afya Maoni platform.
- Healthcare workers are encouraging clients to use the Afya Maoni program to give feedback to improve care.
- Community health workers are attending training to ensure that they are expanding community awareness and participation.
