Question

Researchers mention in their CBPR (Community Based Participatory Research) study that is a quasi-experimental design that the community need for basic information about HIV and STDs superseded the strategy for using navigators as community advocates. What are some other potential limitations that could be drawn about the use of the soccer league navigators being used as community advocates.

Answer 1

A patient navigator helps patients communicate with their healthcare providers so they get the information they need to make decisions about their health care. Patient navigators may also help patients set up appointments for doctor visits and medical tests and get financial, legal, and social support.

Effective patient navigators build working relationships, solve problems, direct patients to resources and manage information

An effective patient navigator is a:

Creative problem solver

Patient navigators find creative solutions to patient barriers. Some patients utilize commonly used services, but others have unique needs that require initiative and creative thinking to locate the appropriate resource. For example, Spanish translation services are common in Colorado, whereas a Cantonese translator may be more difficult to locate.

Organized information manager

Patient navigators manage and track a large amount of information. Patient profiles, appointments and interactions are just a few things navigators need to track and, by law, this information must be kept confidential and secure. It is important that navigators stay organized and use a systematic approach to information management.

Roles and Responsibilities:

Patient navigators help patients "navigate" the maze of clinics, administrative systems and patient support services.

Navigators reduce barriers that keep patients from getting timely treatment by identifying patient needs and directing them to sources of emotional, financial, administrative, or cultural support