Community Health Extension Worker Requirements, Skills & Qualifications

The following common skills and qualifications are required of a Community Health Extension Worker:

  • High school diploma or its equivalent
  • Associate degree or higher in health or human services
  • Experience in the substance abuse and/or mental health field
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills and the ability to work effectively with a wide range of constituencies in a diverse community.
  • Knowledge of community agencies and resources.
  • Working knowledge of multi-system outreach programs related to health care delivery, clinical education, and health-related services
  • Ability to plan, implement, and evaluate individual client care plans.
  • Knowledge of transportation and other barriers to care that may be encountered by client.
  • Ability to communicate medical information to health care professionals and care coordinators over the telephone.
  • Skill in use of personal computers and related software applications, including e-mail.
  • Skill in organizing resources and establishing priorities.
  • Creative and analytical thinking.

Note that this is not an exhaustive list of Community Health Extension Worker skill, qualifications and experience. Job requirements for specific Community Health Extension Worker roles may vary, depending on the industry and type of employer.