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The Community Health Representatives (CHR) are paraprofessional indigenous community based
trained health care staff contracted by the Indian Health Service with Tribal governments.
Tribes have the flexibility to hire and design health care programs to meet Tribal members
health needs through coordinated care for community members in their homes. CHRs are full
members of the combined health care team serving each community. The members of the health
team are from the Indian Health Service, State Health Departments, County Health Departments,
the Bureau of Indian Affairs health related projects, special university health activities,
and not-for profit organizations from around the country, among others, that are present in
any given Native American community to provide health services.
In addition, CHR Programs support several of the GPRA indicators, such as diabetes, immunization
and injury prevention through a collaborative effort on the part of the CHRs and other health care
providers. Many health problems are preventable and the educational and related health services CHRs
provide can result in healthier lifestyles, earlier treatment, lower morbidity and lower health care
costs.
CHRs attend a 2 week basic course emphasizing Public Health and home care concepts and skills. Completion
of pre-course training modules is required prior to attending the training. Thereafter, CHRs attend a 1 week
refresher training every 3 years to update their health care skills. CHR PCC software allows CHRs to document
workload and direct patient activities. Basic, Refresher, First Responder and CHR PCC training are offered on
an annual basis. Contact the Area Consultant for current training information.
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