Authors (including presenting author) :
Wong CCA (1), Lee KY (2), Tam TWV (3), Lee SCP (4), Ngai MYL (4), Ko CMT (1), Wai SFW (1), Leung PS (5), Wan KM (6)
Affiliation :
(1) Medical Department, North District Hospital (2) Health Resource Centre, North District Hospital (3) Health Resource Centre, Prince of Wales Hospital (4) Central Nursing Division, North District Hospital (5) Health Resource Centre, Shatin Hospital / Cheshire Home Shatin / Bradbury Hospice (6) Health Resource Centre, Alice Ho Miu Ling Nethersole Hospital / Tai Po Hospital
Introduction :
Navigating complex healthcare systems is especially challenging for individuals with low health literacy, such as ethnic minorities, older adults, and socioeconomically disadvantaged groups, which significantly impacts their healthcare access and outcomes. Patient navigators are crucial in enhancing healthcare access, disease prevention, health promotion, and community integration. In 2024, the NaviGATE Program (Navigational Guidance and Transitional Empowerment Program) was introduced at North District Hospital (NDH) and Prince of Wales Hospital (PWH). This initiative, led by nurses and social workers, enhances patient navigators' roles by incorporating on-site guided tour services. Trained patient navigators guide vulnerable patients through hospital services and community health resources with informative and interactive tours.
Objectives :
The study aimed to evaluate the NaviGATE Program’s effectiveness at NDH and PWH in improving navigational health literacy, healthcare-seeking behaviors, and perceived social support among vulnerable populations in the NTEC.
Methodology :
A mixed-methods design was used to evaluate the program, with quantitative and qualitative components. Navigational health literacy, health-seeking behaviors, and perceived social support were quantified through pre- and post-intervention surveys. Qualitative data were provided by focus group discussions, with in-depth information about participants' attitudes and experiences.
Result & Outcome :
The study commenced in December 2024 and concluded in March 2025, with all participants in the NaviGATE Program completing pre- and post-intervention surveys. The 62 participants (77.4% female) had one or more chronic diseases for over a year and were receiving follow-up care at NDH and PWH. Participant age groups were distributed as follows: 24.2% aged 40–64, 62.9% aged 65–74, 9.7% aged 75–84, and 3.2% aged 85 or above. Educational attainment levels were: 25.8% primary education, 54.8% secondary education, and 19.4% tertiary education or higher. Quantitative analysis revealed statistically significant improvements across all measured outcomes post-intervention (p < .001). Navigational health literacy scores increased by an average of 2.23 points (95% CI [-2.84, -1.61]), healthcare-seeking behavior scores rose by 1.34 points (95% CI [-1.85, -.83]), and perceived social support scores improved by 1.44 points (95% CI [-1.78, -1.09]). Participants demonstrated notable advancements in navigating healthcare resources, making informed decisions, and proactively seeking health-related information. Focus group interviews with 20 participants identified enhanced confidence in accessing healthcare systems and appreciation for the assistance of patient navigators. Site visits with escorted tours of the hospital facilities, community primary healthcare services, and carer support services offered by NGOs were found to be especially effective in making healthcare resources more accessible and less intimidating. Participants valued receiving timely information regarding essential services like outpatient pharmacy services, health resource centres, and rehabilitation shops that made it easier to transition and have better outcomes after discharge. The inclusive design of the program allowed participants to feel included and supported, reiterating a positive and empowering health care experience. The NaviGATE Program enhances navigational health literacy, healthcare-seeking behaviors, and perceived social support among vulnerable populations. It is recommended to expand the program to additional NTEC hospitals, incorporating more interactive elements and strengthening partnerships with local healthcare providers and community organizations.
