Overview
The purpose of this study is to evaluate patient navigation programs designed to reduce barriers to cancer screening and improve healthcare experiences for adults living in Chicago. Participants will be asked to complete two surveys: the first survey shortly after the participants join the study and a second survey after 1 year. Participants will be joining one of three patient navigation programs, assigned at random. The investigators expect the participants to be in this patient navigation program for 12 months, followed by a 1-month window to complete the final survey.
Description
This study focuses on improving how patient navigators (PNs) help people get cancer care in Chicago. The goal is to reduce differences in cancer outcomes between communities by tackling common challenges like language barriers, difficulty understanding health information, and trouble accessing care.
The program is based on priorities identified by community partners, including:
- Expanding patient navigation services so more people can use them
- Making information easier to understand and available in different languages
- Improving communication between patients and healthcare providers by sharing patient feedback
At the individual patient level, navigators will help people overcome obstacles (like scheduling, transportation, or understanding instructions). This support is expected to help patients complete important steps in their care, such as:
- Getting screened for cancer
- Following up on abnormal test results
- Starting treatment on time
Eligibility
Inclusion Criteria:
- adults 18 years and older;
- able to complete verbal survey in English, Spanish, or Mandarin/Cantonese Chinese;
- reside in Chicago;
- able to give informed consent;
- agree to a verbal consent document prior to being registered in the study;
- has a smart device with access to the internet.
Exclusion Criteria:
- Age \<18
- Incarceration
- Adults unable to give informed consent
