PROTOCOL: Artificial Intelligence and Other Digital Tools Used by, and for Community Health Workers (CHWs) in Low and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs) to Improve Outcomes and Increase Effectiveness: An Evidence and Gap Map

This is the protocol for the development of a Campbell Collaboration evidence and gap map (EGM). This protocol presents the methodology for developing the EGM. The objectives of this EGM include answering the following questions related to the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and other digital health tools by, and for CHWs in LMICs.

(1) What are the primary digital tools used by and for CHWs in LMICs, and for what purposes?

(2) To what extent, if any, is AI specifically being utilized by or for CHWs?

(3) What is the empirical evidence supporting the effectiveness of such tools, including AI, and the quality of that evidence?

(4) Does the use of digital tools and job aids by CHWs in LMICs contribute to (1) greater effectiveness and efficiency in carrying out assigned CHWs’ responsibilities; and (2) better health and other well-being outcomes for the clients and communities the CHWs serve?

(5) What are the risks and drawbacks of using digital tools, especially AI? What safeguarding strategies are employed to mitigate these risks?

(6) What are the primary gaps in the evidence for using digital tools, including AI, used by, and for CHWs in LMICs?