Aims
This study aims to determine the acceptability, feasibility and sustainability of the Alternative Access Model (AAM), recently rolled out by the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program (NBCSP), within the Mandarin-speaking Chinese community and among primary healthcare providers serving this population. Through a co-design approach, we seek to identify barriers to and facilitators of AAM utilization and develop strategies to optimize its implementation, enhancing both participation and sustainability.
Methods
The co-design approach includes 20-30 semi-structured interviews with healthcare providers and 10 interactive focus group discussions with Mandarin-speaking community members (n= 80-100). Following this, we will undertake two surveys, one targeting Mandarin-speaking healthcare providers to assess the acceptability, feasibility, and sustainability of the recommendations; and the other surveying Mandarin-speaking consumers to explore factors influencing their response to the AAM, such as cancer knowledge and health attitudes.
Results
Preliminary results indicate that while there is limited awareness of the AAM among General Practitioners (GPs), Practice Nurses, and Practice Managers, there is significant interest in its adoption. Offering materials in patients' native languages and providing technical support for integration of software clinic is using and the portal required by AAM are crucial. Focus groups with Chinese community members reflect a strong commitment to proactive health measures, though issues with kit delivery and delays persist. Enhancing instructions in consumers’ native language, and leveraging GPs endorsement, alongside promoting the program through social media platforms (e.g., WeChat) commonly used by community members and community events, are key strategies for improving engagement and effectiveness.
Conclusion
Strategies developed through co-designing with health professionals and community members will improve navigation and participation in the NBCSP, hence, increased uptake bowel cancer screening. Findings and strategies from the study will provide insights and can be replicated in other culturally diverse communities, promoting equitable and better health outcomes for all Australians.