Transition Experiences of Adolescents and Young Adults Working with a Patient Navigator

Overview

Journal Health Care Transit

Date 2024 Dec 23

PMID 39712475

Authors

Daniella San Martin-Feeney

Sophie Samborn

Brooke Allemang

Megan Patton

Zoya Punjwani

Ken Pfister

Laurel Ryan

Gregory M T Guilcher

Lorraine Hamiwka

Scott Klarenbach

Eddy Lang

Kerry McBrien

Alberto Nettel-Aguirre

Daniele Pacaud

Jorge Pinzon

Shannon D Scott

Lonnie Zwaigenbaum

Curtis Perrott

John Andersen

Gail Andrew

Andrew S Mackie

Susan Samuel

Gina Dimitropoulos

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

Introduction: The transition from pediatric to adult care poses challenges for adolescents and young adults (AYA) with chronic conditions and their caregivers. A patient navigator (PN) intervention may mitigate transition-related barriers.

Methods: A qualitative study was conducted within a pragmatic randomized controlled trial. A purposive sample was recruited of AYA with diverse diagnostic and demographic characteristics who worked with the PN and/or their caregivers. Seventeen participants completed semi-structured interviews at baseline and post-intervention and optional journal entries. Thematic analysis was used inductively.

Results: Analysis yielded two themes from baseline interviews: 1) uncertainty and hesitation with leaving a place of support, 2) navigator assistance with post-secondary education, and three themes from post-intervention interviews: 1) emotional support, 2) informational and task-focused support, 3) navigator guidance to become more independent.

Discussion: Our findings describe the needs of AYA and the experience of PN support; our findings may guide future implementation of PNs in transition care.

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