Lay Health Worker as Interventionist Training: Reflective Writing in US Family Health Promotion Practice.
Health Promotion International Feb 2021
Lay health workers from immigrant and refugee communities in Rochester were trained to deliver a family-based nutrition and physical activity program through RHCP. These Family Health Promoters (FHPs) worked directly with families to set small, meaningful health goals, adapting their approach to each family's unique needs and circumstances. Their reflections showed that they used motivational interviewing techniques, respected cultural differences, and tailored lesson content to fit real-life situations. The intervention emphasized building trust and supporting behavior change through flexible, family-centered communication.
As the FHPs gained experience, they reported personal growth and a deeper connection to their work. They became more confident, patient, and emotionally invested in helping families improve their health. Their reflections revealed that the relationships they built were central to their success and transformation. This process evaluation highlights how real-time reflective writing can enhance training and support for lay health workers, offering valuable insights for future health promotion programs in diverse communities.