By: Christopher A. Parrella, Esq., CPC, CHC, CPCO
Parrella Health Law, Boston, Ma.
A Health Law Defense and Compliance Firm

Community Health Workers (CHWs) play a vital role in bridging healthcare gaps in Massachusetts by providing culturally appropriate health education, outreach, and direct services. Defined by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH), CHWs are distinguished by their deep understanding of the communities they serve. They assist in accessing services, advocating for community needs, and offering informal counseling and health screenings.

Certification and Training:
The Board of Certification of CHWs, under the DPH, grants voluntary certification and approves core competency training programs. These programs often include CHW co-trainers, enhancing training quality and offering career advancement opportunities. DPH encourages CHW supervisor training and supports employers in facilitating this training.

Medicaid Reimbursement:
While MassHealth does not directly reimburse CHWs, they are integral to Medicaid service delivery through community health centers and other provider types. The 2023 capitated primary care program incentivizes team-based care, including CHW support.

Conclusion:
Parrella Health Law supports navigating the complex regulatory and reimbursement environment to optimize CHW services. For assistance with compliance or to discuss how CHWs can enhance your healthcare delivery model, contact Parrella Health Law at 857.328.0382 or email Chris directly at cparrella@parrellahealthlaw.com.

Christopher Parrella, ESQ, CPC, CHC, CPCO, is the founding partner of Parrella Health Law in Boston, Mass. The firm focuses exclusively on healthcare defense and compliance matters. Chris also travels the country on behalf of a wide range of healthcare organizations, lecturing on a variety of health care enforcement and compliance topics. Chris is one of a handful of health care attorney’s that are also Certified Professional Coders (CPC) and is a member of the AAPC’s National Legal Advisory Board and Ethics Committee.  He is also a Certified Professional Compliance Officer (CPCO) and Certified in Health Care Compliance (CHC.)