This booklet examines how the concept of the community health worker (a person chosen from the community and trained to function in the community in close relationship with the health care system) is being practiced in various developing countries. It also identifies the major problems and indicates how the contribution of the community health worker to the provision of primary health care can be made more effective in the future. It is based on a review of literature as well as on unpublished reports of meetings and other generally inaccessible material. The booklet is organized into eight sections, covering these aspects of the community health worker concept: tasks and functions, selection and recruitment, training, remuneration, career prospects, attrition rates, support services, and concluding observations. Drawing examples from 46 countries, the booklet not only explains how these areas are handled in various countries but also makes recommendations about how the community health programs work best and how they can be implemented. (KC)