Person-Centered Navigator Program for People with Parkinson’s Disease: A Pilot Study

Abstract

There are limited Parkinson’s disease (PD)-specific navigator programs, although PD is chronic and requires life-long comprehensive care. As most patient navigation literature focuses on oncology and is based in the West, this study aimed to develop a person-centered navigator program for PD and evaluate its preliminary outcomes and feasibility in the Korean context. The program was developed using the “analysis, design, development, implementation, and evaluation” model, and “professional navigation framework.” Initially, 28 participants were recruited to participate in an 8-week navigator program. The retention rate was 82%. Social function was significantly improved 12 weeks after baseline. Participants reported high satisfaction with the program, suggesting that it was well-accepted. This study systematically developed a navigator program based on PD-specific needs and the Korean context. Future models should focus on personal and participatory attributes. Navigator programs for people with PD represent appropriate and evolving healthcare interventions.