HBGCE0160 - Systems Thinking and Resource Coordination for Community Health Workers

Course Description

Community Health Workers are essential to the strength and sustainability of our public health systems. As trusted connectors, advocates, and navigators, CHWs play a critical role in improving access, reducing disparities, and supporting whole-person care. 

This course is designed to strengthen that impact. 

Systems Thinking and Resource Coordination for CHWs equips participants with the knowledge and practical skills to move beyond individual-level problem solving and adopt a systems-based approach to community health work. Participants will explore how health systems function, how to navigate them more effectively, and how to strengthen referrals, partnerships, and resource coordination across sectors. 

Through a combination of real-world examples, applied learning, and guided practice, learners will build the capacity to connect individuals to care more effectively while influencing the systems that shape health outcomes. 

Flexible Learning Experience 

• 100% Online | Fully Asynchronous  

• No live sessions or scheduled class meetings  

• Suggested pace: one module per week  

• Designed for working professionals balancing busy schedules  

Who Should Enroll 

This course is ideal for: 

• Community Health Workers (CHWs)  

• Care coordinators and patient navigators  

• CHW supervisors and program leaders  

• Public health and human service professionals  

• Anyone responsible for referrals, resource coordination, or client support within health and community systems  

Participants who benefit most are those seeking to strengthen their ability to navigate complex systems, build partnerships, and improve coordination of care.  

Course Outline

This course is delivered in a fully asynchronous, self-paced format and includes four modules: 

Module 1: Systems Thinking for Community Health Workers 
Learn how to understand and navigate health systems using a systems-based lens to strengthen decision-making and problem-solving.  

Module 2: Understanding and Engaging with the Community 
Build skills in cultural humility, trust-building, and meaningful community engagement.  

Module 3: Collaboration in Community Health Work 
Strengthen interdisciplinary teamwork and partnerships across health and human service systems.  

Module 4: Effective Referrals and Resource Coordination 
Develop strategies to improve referrals, identify resources, and coordinate care effectively across systems.  

Course Timeline & Access 

• The course runs within a fixed monthly enrollment period  

• Participants may enroll up to two weeks before the end of the course month  

• All coursework must be completed by 11:59 PM (ET) on the final day of the course month, regardless of enrollment date  

This flexible structure allows you to start when you’re ready—while maintaining a clear timeline for completion. 

Learner Outcomes

What You Will Learn 

By the end of this course, participants will be able to: 

• Apply a systems thinking lens to understand and navigate health systems  

• Strengthen community engagement and trust-building practices using culturally responsive approaches  

• Build and sustain collaborative partnerships across healthcare and community-based organizations  

• Improve referral processes and resource coordination to better support client outcomes  

These competencies directly support CHWs in improving access, continuity of care, and overall community health outcomes  

Notes

Participants who successfully complete all modules and earn a passing score of 80% or higher will receive a Certificate of Completion. 

This course may be submitted toward continuing education or recertification requirements, where applicable