Indigenous Patient Navigator Support for Chronic Diseases

Age: < 65

Sex: Any

Trial Phase: Academic

Sponsor: University of Alberta

Disqualifiers: Non-Indigenous, Non-Maskwacis residents

No Placebo Group All trial participants will receive the active study treatment (no placebo)

Compensation: Varies

Number of Visits: 5

20 Participants Needed

Trial Summary

What is the purpose of this trial?

The objective of this pathway is to establish and evaluate a novel Indigenous-led patient navigator (IPN) program for Indigenous adolescents living with chronic health conditions in Maskwacis, Alberta. Over the last three years a community-based participatory research partnership was developed with Elders and community members from Maskwacis, Maskwacis Health Services, and researchers from the University of Alberta. Previous research identified the need for an IPN to support Indigenous young adults and their caregivers in managing their health conditions transitioning into adulthood and transferring from pediatric to adult healthcare. The aim of partnership now is to evaluate whether a community-derived IPN program co-designed with an established group of Maskwacis Elders, Knowledge Keepers, healthcare providers, caregivers and youth with lived experience can aid in improving the experience of transitioning into adult healthcare services for Indigenous youth and their families living in Maskwacis, Alberta.

Will I have to stop taking my current medications?

The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It seems focused on support and transition rather than medication changes.

What data supports the effectiveness of the treatment Indigenous Patient Navigator Support for chronic diseases?

Research shows that Indigenous Patient Navigator programs can help improve access to healthcare and outcomes for Indigenous patients, particularly in cancer care. These programs have been associated with increased participation in health screenings and reduced treatment delays, suggesting they can effectively address barriers to care and improve health outcomes. ^{1 2 3 4 5}

How does Indigenous Patient Navigator Support differ from other treatments for chronic diseases?

Indigenous Patient Navigator Support is unique because it focuses on providing culturally safe care and support specifically for Indigenous patients, helping them navigate complex healthcare systems and overcome barriers like systemic racism. Unlike traditional treatments, this approach emphasizes empowerment and connection to appropriate services, tailored to the cultural and social needs of Indigenous communities. ^{1 2 4 6 7}

Eligibility Criteria

This trial is for Indigenous adolescents with chronic health conditions in Maskwacis, Alberta. It's designed to help them as they become adults and switch from pediatric to adult healthcare services. Participants should be part of the community and interested in receiving support from an Indigenous Patient Navigator.

Inclusion Criteria

Residing in Maskwacis

Self-identified as an Indigenous person

I have a long-term health condition since childhood needing specialist care.

Exclusion Criteria

Not identifying as Indigenous

Not residing in Maskwacis

Timeline

Screening

Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial

2-4 weeks

Navigator Meeting

The IPN will schedule a face-to-face meeting with the participant to review their health condition and create an individual-centered transition plan.

1-2 weeks

1 visit (in-person)

Navigator Support

Participants will work with the IPN for up to 18 months, receiving support in various aspects such as connecting with community supports, scheduling appointments, and promoting self-management skills.

18 months

Peer Support Sessions + Talking Circles

Peer support sessions held every 3 months to build community, reduce isolation, and empower participants, with cultural ceremonies and traditional teachings.

18 months

Every 3 months (in-person)

Follow-up

Participants complete a follow-up semi-structured interview to provide feedback on their experience with IPN support.

1-2 weeks

1 visit (in-person or virtual)

Treatment Details

Interventions

• Indigenous Patient Navigator Support

Trial Overview The study tests a new program where an Indigenous Patient Navigator helps young adults manage their chronic diseases during their transition into adult healthcare. The effectiveness of this culturally tailored support will be evaluated.

Participant Groups

Group I: Indigenous Patient Navigator Support Experimental Treatment 1 Intervention

Participants will work with an Indigenous Patient Navigator (IPN) for up to 18 months. The IPN may have the following roles in supporting the youth +/- their caregiver in managing their healthcare and health condition: * Spiritual: connect with community Elders, connect with cultural programs, arrange smudging and ceremony * Physical: find housing, find a family doctor, arrange transportation, fill prescriptions, create a health passport * Mental: arrange health benefits, schedule appointments, find employment, connect to community services * Emotional: connect with peers, find mental health supports, support youth at appointments, communicate with youth's healthcare team

Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?

University of Alberta

Lead Sponsor

Trials

957

Recruited

437,000+

References

1. United States pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

The Role of the Indigenous Patient Navigator: A Scoping Review. [2022]

2. England pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Lessons learned from a pilot study of an Indigenous patient navigator intervention in Queensland, Australia. [2021]

3. England pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Quantitative evaluation of an outreach case management model of care for urban Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adults living with complex chronic disease: a longitudinal study. [2021]

4. Australia pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Navigating the cancer journey: a review of patient navigator programs for Indigenous cancer patients. [2012]

5. Switzerland pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Perspectives of Aboriginal People Affected by Cancer on the Need for an Aboriginal Navigator in Cancer Treatment and Support: A Qualitative Study. [2023]

6. United States pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

An environmental scan of Indigenous Patient Navigator programs in Ontario. [2022]

7. Australia pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Follow-up of Indigenous-specific health assessments - a socioecological analysis. [2021]