Submission ID 118574
| Issue/Objective | The prevalence of Type 2 Diabetes is disproportionately high in newcomer communities in Canada, particularly in areas with limited access to healthcare services. This project aims to address health disparities by developing and piloting the Family Health Van (FHV), a mobile "pop-up" health clinic approach in Hamilton, Ontario. Targeting city Wards with higher proportions of newcomer families-this initiative aims to educate and support communities on the prevention and screening of T2DM. The project will leverage the RE-AIM Framework to evaluate and refine the services provided, ensuring they are culturally relevant and accessible. |
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| Methodology/Approach | The FHV will be stationed at accessible community locations such as parks and community centers within the identified wards. Outreach and recruitment efforts will include collaboration with local organization, social media, and word-of-mouth, ensuring a diverse representation of participants. Participants will engage in risk screenings and educational activities, with data collected on their knowledge and behaviors regarding T2DM before and after receiving the information package. The RE-AIM Framework will guide the evaluation of Reach, Effectiveness, Adoption, Implementation, and Maintenance, allowing real-time adjustments to the educational toolkits and screening methods. Data will be collected using both qualitative and quantitative methods, including interviews and participant feedback. |
| Results | This project will gather valuable insights into the effectiveness of the FHVs approach to T2DM prevention and screening in newcomer communities. We expect to identify areas for improvement in the toolkits, as well as factors impacting community engagement. The data will be analyzed to evaluate changes in participants' knowledge, behavior, and willingness to apply the information shared. The rapid qualitative assessment will allow for immediate refinements to the toolkit and implementation strategy. |
| Discussion/Conclusion | The FHVs initiative represents a proactive approach to healthcare delivery, bridging gaps in access and addressing health disparities in Hamilton's newcomer communities. By meeting individuals where they are, this mobile health model fosters early intervention and prevention of chronic diseases like T2DM. The results of this pilot will contribute to a broader understanding of how mobile health clinics can be used effectively to promote health equity, with potential for scaling up to other communities across Canada. The findings will also inform policy and program development for health interventions in diverse, underserved populations. |
| Presenters and affiliations | Yusra Naqvi McMaster University, Mary Heersink School of Global Health & Social Medicine Sujane Kandasamy McMaster University, Mary Heersink School of Global Health & Social Medicine |
