Patient and Systems Navigation: Resolving an Unmet Clinical Need
Standing
Undergraduate
Type of Proposal
Oral Research Presentation
Challenges Theme
Open Challenge
Faculty Sponsor
Pardeepa Yoganathan
Proposal
Abstract: Background: Retinal disorders pose significant visual problems for patients. and disproportionately affect those experiencing barriers to accessing high-quality eye care. Patient navigators are individuals who help overcome known barriers to the utilization of various healthcare services. The purpose of this study is to develop a patient navigator program and to evaluate its feasibility is supporting patients with retinal disorders. Methods: All study participants will be recruited from Windsor Eye Associates. The qualitative study involves a convenience sample of patients who expressed interest in sharing their lived experiences of navigating the healthcare system. Main barriers to accessing eye care will be identified. The quantitative study includes patient navigator intervention and survey questionnaires. Participants will be selected based on a screening questionnaire designed to identify patients experiencing challenges to accessing eye care. Prior to and following patient navigator intervention, participants will be asked to complete the demographic survey, VFQ-25, IVI profile and mental health survey consisting of PHQ-9 and GAD-7. Results: Preliminary results show that 39% of the patients who underwent the pre-screening survey identified that their eye condition is a big source of anxiety, or significantly impacted their mental health. In addition, 56% of patients interviewed are interested in participating in a longer survey that explores the gaps found in our healthcare system. Conclusion: Patients with retinal disorders may struggle with mental health and a lack of access to essential services. Implementation of a patient navigator support system is likely to improve vision-related quality of life of these patients.
Grand Challenges
Viable, Healthy and Safe Communities
Patient and Systems Navigation: Resolving an Unmet Clinical Need
Abstract: Background: Retinal disorders pose significant visual problems for patients. and disproportionately affect those experiencing barriers to accessing high-quality eye care. Patient navigators are individuals who help overcome known barriers to the utilization of various healthcare services. The purpose of this study is to develop a patient navigator program and to evaluate its feasibility is supporting patients with retinal disorders. Methods: All study participants will be recruited from Windsor Eye Associates. The qualitative study involves a convenience sample of patients who expressed interest in sharing their lived experiences of navigating the healthcare system. Main barriers to accessing eye care will be identified. The quantitative study includes patient navigator intervention and survey questionnaires. Participants will be selected based on a screening questionnaire designed to identify patients experiencing challenges to accessing eye care. Prior to and following patient navigator intervention, participants will be asked to complete the demographic survey, VFQ-25, IVI profile and mental health survey consisting of PHQ-9 and GAD-7. Results: Preliminary results show that 39% of the patients who underwent the pre-screening survey identified that their eye condition is a big source of anxiety, or significantly impacted their mental health. In addition, 56% of patients interviewed are interested in participating in a longer survey that explores the gaps found in our healthcare system. Conclusion: Patients with retinal disorders may struggle with mental health and a lack of access to essential services. Implementation of a patient navigator support system is likely to improve vision-related quality of life of these patients.