Arthritis liaison: a First Nations community-based patient care facilitator

• Published in: Health Promotion and Chronic Disease Prevention in Canada
• Main Authors: Valerie Umaefulam, Adalberto Loyola-Sanchez, Valene Bear Chief, Ana Rame, Louise Crane, Tessa Kleissen, Lynden Crowshoe, Tyler White, Diane Lacaille, Cheryl Barnabe
• Format: Article in Journal/Newspaper
• Language: English; French
• Published: Public Health Agency of Canada 2021
• Subjects: Medicine (General); R5-920; First Nations
• Online Access: https://doi.org/10.24095/hpcdp.41.6.04; https://doaj.org/article/261032505d1945bb9f4f6eb08a7a9d70

IntroductionArthritis is a leading cause of disability in First Nations communities and is often accompanied by other chronic diseases. Existing care models prioritize accessibility to specialty care for treatment, whereas patient-centred approaches support broader health goals. MethodsA patient care facilitator model of care, termed “arthritis liaison,” was developed with the community to support culturally relevant patient-centred care plans. Following a one-year-long intervention, we report on the feasibility and acceptability of this care model from the perspectives of patients and health care providers. ResultsThe arthritis liaison served as a bridge between the clinicians and patients, and fostered continuity, helping patients receive coordinated care within the community.