The District needs to develop and hire community health care workers to reach poor residents who don’t have access to doctors and hospitals, according to a study by The Brookings Institution.

The study was commissioned by the D.C. Primary Care Association, which is working to develop a community health care program in January. Community health workers are trusted, well-trained community members whose backgrounds are similar to those they serve, according to the study. The community health workers provide health education, links to services, and support in managing health conditions.