Community Health Worker how-to

How to Use Teach-Back

Teach-back confirms understanding.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

Teach-back confirms understanding. In short: explain; ask; listen, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. Explain one key point simply.

  2. Ask the person to explain it back.

  3. Listen closely.

  4. Clarify misunderstandings.

  5. Repeat with the next point.

  6. Thank them.

Safety reminders for community health workers

  • Share your schedule for home visits
  • Trust your instincts
  • Follow infection control
  • Protect privacy

CHW · Social determinants of health · Patient navigation · Outreach · Health literacy · Chronic disease: see the full community health worker glossary.

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