Description:

Globally, women form the backbone of the healthcare system, providing the bulk of care at the primary care frontlines. In changing global landscape characterized by increasing political, financial, climate-related insecurity, and a projected shortfall of 10 million health workers by 2030, the importance of frontline health promotion and prevention activities has never been greater. Community Health Workers (CHWs) deliver primary health care to over one billion people in LMICs, the majority of whom are women. However, many lack the support, protection and professional pathways needed to succeed. This symposia reports on Women In Global Health's latest advocacy campaign supporting the professionalization of CHWs as a matter of gender and economic justice and a means to acheive health equity.

1. Understand the role and potential of CHWs globally in the context of challenged health systems 2. Identify key actions to support economic and gender justice for CHWs 3. Consider how the role and contributions of CHWs might be relevant in efforts to strengthen, recognize and scale frontline care in Canada.

The session will begin with three 10-minute presentations outlining the contributions of CHWs to community health and health systems, the stories of CHWs and their motivations and aspirations for professional growth and leadership within their communities, and key actions to support gender and economic justice for CHWs. The next ½ hour will consist of a brief audience Q & A, followed by a moderated discussion during which panellists reflect on lessons for Canada: how can frontline care be strengthened and what it should look like? In the last ½ hour, participants will be asked to contribute and share their insights/experience in small groups.

1. CHWs are the backbone of the health system and are increasingly important in the context of polycrisis. 2. CHWs must be professionalized, supported, protected, paid fairly and given opportunities for professional advancement and leadership within health systems. 3. Canada's struggling primary health care system should prioritize the development, recognition and expansion of non-physician cadres that support community and team-based primary care.