Examining the Usefulness of Patient Documentation Forms as a Tool for Community Health Navigators

Findings from the ENCOMPASS Pilot Study

Authors

  • Alessandra Paolucci University of Calgary
  • Sarah MacDonald University of Calgary
  • Dailys Garcia-Jorda University of Calgary
  • Caillie Pritchard University of Calgary
  • Jennifer Malkin University of Calgary
  • Natalie C. Ludlow University of Calgary
  • Gabriel Fabreau University of Calgary
  • Kerry A. McBrien University of Calgary

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.29173/aar115

Keywords:

Community Health Navigators, patient encounter documentation, primary care, chronic disease, patient navigation

Abstract

Introduction | Effective documentation of patient encounters may influence Community Health Navigators’ (CHNs) success in providing support to patients as well as provide a data source to examine CHN practices. The ENhancing COMmunity health through Patient navigation, Advocacy, and Social Support (ENCOMPASS) study, based in partnership between the University of Calgary and the Mosaic Primary Care Network (MPCN) is evaluating a CHN program to determine whether CHNs improve outcomes for patients with multiple chronic conditions. CHNs support their patients by helping them navigate the health system, connect to community resources, and access culturally appropriate support. The purpose of this study was to examine the quality and usefulness of CHN-patient documentation forms used in the ENCOMPASS pilot study (i.e., Initial Action Planning Form, Follow-up Action Planning Form, Patient Encounter Form, all implemented on the REDCap platform) and revise the documentation process using co-design with the end user.

Methods | An iterative co-design quality improvement process was employed across three phases. First, content analyses were conducted on the Patient Encounter Form notes to examine how CHNs were using the forms and how they were documenting their activities. Second, a survey was distributed to CHNs to gather their perspectives about their experiences with the REDCap platform and the three forms. Third, a working group, consisting of four CHNs, met twice with research team members to discuss barriers to use and opportunities for improvement.

Results | The REDCap platform and the three CHN-patient encounter forms did not adequately meet the needs of the CHNs. Content analysis revealed significant variation in how the Patient Encounter Form was utilized and various form sections were not completed as intended. In the survey, CHNs reported that the documentation experience was not satisfactory and the training that they had received to date was insufficient. The CHN working group suggested changes to the interface with the REDCap platform and form structure. Revisions were made based on these suggestions, and approved by the working group.

Conclusions | The approved changes to REDCap and the three forms will be implemented and introduced to the CHN team. The research team will develop a patient encounter documentation guidelines document and will provide all members of the CHN team with the opportunity to receive re-training. These changes will be reviewed with the CHNs to continue the iterative quality improvement process. Prior to final implementation, consultation with the Clinical Research Unit administrators on the feasibility of the revisions made to the forms and interface with the REDCap platform will be held. The results of this study have the potential to provide a better overall experience for CHNs in the ENCOMPASS program and enhance their work with patients.

Author Biographies

Sarah MacDonald, University of Calgary

MPH

Dailys Garcia-Jorda, University of Calgary

PhD

Caillie Pritchard, University of Calgary

BSc

Jennifer Malkin, University of Calgary

BSc

Natalie C. Ludlow, University of Calgary

PhD

Gabriel Fabreau, University of Calgary

MD; MPH; FRCPC

Kerry A. McBrien, University of Calgary

MD; MPH; CCFP

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Published

2020-01-23

Issue

Section

CASCH abstracts