Feasibility of a web-based training system for peer community health advisors in cancer early detection among african americans

Abstract

We describe the feasibility of a Web-based portal for training peer community health advisors (CHAs). We conducted a community-based implementation trial in African American churches between 2012 and 2014. The Web-based portal allows CHAs to log in and view 13 training videos, preparing them to deliver 3 cancer early detection workshops in their churches. Of 8 churches, 6 completed the training, each certifying 2 CHAs. These CHAs took an average of 26 days to complete the training, requiring little technical assistance. Additional technical assistance was required to implement the workshops. The Web-based system appears to be a feasible method for training lay individuals for the CHA role and has implications for increasing the reach of evidence-based interventions.

FIGURE 1—

Project HEAL Web-based training flow diagram: Prince George’s County, MD, 2012–2014. Note. CHA = community health advisor; HEAL = Health through Early Awareness and Learning; MOU = memorandum of understanding.

FIGURE 2—

Flow diagram of Project HEAL church allocation and CHA recruitment: Prince George’s County, MD, 2012–2014. Note. CHA = community health advisor; HEAL = Health through Early Awareness and Learning. ^aCHAs trained and certified, but church dropped out before first workshop date; church not replaced because of late drop out.