Impact of Patient Demographics on Student-Led Patient Navigation Outcomes: A Study of a South Florida Medical School's Patient Navigation Program.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVES: Medical student-run patient navigation (PN) programs enhance healthcare access in underserved communities. This study examines the relationship between patient demographics and PN outcomes in a student-led PN program. METHODS: Patients with moderate or high-risk health concerns were paired with medical students at health fairs. Statistical analysis evaluates program success and demographic influences. RESULTS: Of 444 patients, 66.4% were female, 47.1% Hispanic White, 49.1% spoke English, and 63.7% earned <300% of the federal poverty level. More than half were uninsured and 52.5% achieved navigation goals. Insurance status and risk level significantly predicted PN outcomes, with "other insurance" and high-risk patients being 1.9 and 1.7 times more likely to complete navigation. CONCLUSIONS: The program achieved high completion rates, emphasizing the need for resources such as translators and financial assistance. Risk stratification successfully linked acute cases to resources. Navigation success was consistent, demonstrating the effectiveness of the program across diverse patient groups.