Community Activation to TrAnsform Local sYSTems (CATALYST)

Background: This study aimed to understand the response and recovery roles of California-based community health workers (CHWs) in informing actionable solutions to address COVID-19, existing health inequities, and their root causes. The study assessed multilevel factors associated with COVID-19 response and recovery among CHWs/promotores and community members in vulnerable ethnic/racial communities of Orange County.

Materials/Methods: Aim 1 used focus groups to examine the facilitators, barriers, and processes of change that CHWs implemented for COVID-19 response and chronic disease management education. Aim 2 used key informant interviews to assess system-level factors that enhanced inequities in COVID-19 testing and vaccination for underserved and vulnerable populations. Aim 3 used state-wide interviews to analyze how advocacy efforts implemented by CHWs and community-based organizations shaped changes in the COVID-19 response.

Outcome/Impact: The intended outcomes of the study were to advance understanding of the essential role of CHWs in addressing multilevel, community barriers to accessing COVID-19 information, testing, risk mitigation, and vaccination. The study contributed to the knowledge of the factors associated with COVID-19 response and recovery in vulnerable ethnic/racial communities.