Implementing Patient Navigator Support to Address Barriers in Retinal Care: A Mixed Methods Study

This study sought to identify patient and system level barriers in the local retina patient community and evaluate the feasibility of a patient navigator system. A mixed-method style combining qualitative and quantitative approaches was conducted. The administration of a preliminary questionnaire to gauge patient interest and a longer questionnaire was utilized for the quantitative approach. The conduction of a semi structured interview, designed to further explore major barriers, was implemented for the qualitative approach. The information from both survey and interview will be utilized in the development, implementation, and improvement of a patient navigator system (such as: diabetic counseling, mental health assistance, general assistive services). Five themes emerged: lack of primary care support, transportation difficulties, managing comorbidities, low health literacy, and emotional distress. Of the 150 patients surveyed, 75 showed interest in the patient navigator program. The study suggests patient navigators could address co-morbidities, preventing disease progression. Patients are receptive, and community resources are willing to cooperate. This study demonstrates the feasibility of implementing a patient navigator system and the likelihood to improve vision related quality of life of these patients. The follow up of the study will implement the use of patient navigators and measure their effectiveness and response.