Nurse Practitioner Margaret Hammersley advocates for House Bill 850 to support community health workers

A recent meeting of the Montana Legislature's House Business and Labor Committee highlighted the critical need for House Bill 850, which aims to license and reimburse community health workers (CHWs). The bill's proponents, including nurse practitioner Margaret Hammersley, emphasized the importance of CHWs in improving healthcare access, particularly in rural areas where resources are limited.

Hammersley shared her experiences as a cancer researcher, noting that many patients struggle to follow care plans due to a lack of understanding or resources. This often leads to severe health consequences, including preventable deaths. By supporting the licensing of CHWs, the bill seeks to enhance their effectiveness and accessibility, allowing them to provide essential support to patients in their communities.

The meeting also featured insights from various stakeholders, including representatives from the University of Montana and Montana State University, who discussed the ongoing training programs for CHWs. Currently, these programs are grant-funded, allowing individuals to receive training at no cost. However, the funding is set to expire in September 2025, prompting discussions on securing future funding sources and potential costs for participants.

Committee members raised questions about the current state of CHW training and the path toward licensure. It was noted that while there is no formal licensure yet, both universities are collaborating to establish certification standards that align with national competencies. This effort aims to ensure that CHWs are well-prepared to meet the unique healthcare needs of Montanans.

The discussions underscored a growing recognition of the vital role CHWs play in the healthcare system, particularly in underserved areas. As the committee considers House Bill 850, the outcomes could significantly impact the delivery of healthcare services across Montana, enhancing support for patients and improving overall health outcomes in the community.