JAMA Network Open: First Peer-Reviewed CA-Specific CHW/Promotora Training Study — 505 Workers Show Significant Capacity Gains

JAMA Network Open published a mixed-methods study (April 2026) of 505 California CHWs and promotoras evaluating a capacity-building training program. Participants showed statistically significant increases in self-rated knowledge, skills, abilities, and confidence aligned to learning objectives. This is the first major peer-reviewed evidence base for CA-specific CHW/P training effectiveness during the SB 803 stall and the November 2023 certification pause. Strategic implication for FQHCs: provides publishable evidence that CHW/promotora training works — useful ammunition for the 2026 CHW Advisory Workgroup deliberations (continuing through June 2026), Medi-Cal CHW benefit defense during May Revision negotiations, and FQHC decisions to invest in promotora teams despite the certification freeze. Counter-evidence to any push to cut CHW Medi-Cal benefits during budget compression. CFO talking point: workforce diversity investments produce measurable competency gains, not just feel-good outcomes.