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

• 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
• Language: English
• Published: Public Health Agency of Canada 2021-06-01
• Series: Health Promotion and Chronic Disease Prevention in Canada
• Online Access: https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/reports-publications/health-promotion-chronic-disease-prevention-canada-research-policy-practice/vol-41-no-6-2021/arthritis-liaison-first-nations-community-care-facilitator.html

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.