Community Health Nursing in Chronic Illness Management: Contributing to SDG 3 & SDG 11

Abstract

Chronic illnesses such as diabetes, hypertension, asthma, and cardiovascular diseases pose a growing global health challenge, especially in low- and middle-income countries. As healthcare systems struggle to meet the long-term needs of chronically ill populations, community health nurses (CHNs) have emerged as pivotal actors in delivering cost-effective, patient-centered, and preventive care. This secondary research paper explores the evolving role of CHNs in chronic illness management by synthesizing findings from a range of scholarly articles, international reports, and program evaluations. The study identifies the multifaceted contributions of CHNs—ranging from health education, medication monitoring, and early screening to psychosocial support and home-based interventions. It also highlights measurable outcomes such as reduced hospital admissions, improved patient adherence, and better chronic disease control indicators. However, systemic challenges such as inadequate training, lack of resources, and limited policy integration often hinder the full potential of CHN-led interventions. The paper concludes that empowering CHNs through targeted training, digital integration, and collaborative policy frameworks is essential to achieving equitable and sustainable chronic care solutions. These findings offer valuable insights for health planners, policymakers, and stakeholders aiming to strengthen community-based healthcare models in response to the global chronic disease burden.