Digital Health Navigation for Latino Patients With Type II Diabetes

Latinos have the second-highest age-adjusted prevalence and among the highest incidence of diabetes. Latinos also experience worse glycemic control and diabetes-related complications, including diabetic retinopathy and chronic renal disease. These findings are concerning since Latinos are the largest minority group in the U.S and will account for 25% of the population by 2045.

Digital tools, like patient portals and telemedicine, offer an opportunity to address some of the challenges that lead to these disparities, especially during care transitions. However, Latinos, especially those who are Spanish-speaking are less likely to use digital health tools. Findings from previous health information technology work have highlighted barriers, including 1) digital access and literacy, 2) interface usability, 3) privacy, and 4) patient preference. One promising intervention to address digital literacy gaps is the use digital navigators.

This study aims are to assess a digital health navigation intervention focused on increasing patient portal use after discharge among Latino patients with type II diabetes admitted to the general medicine inpatient floor.

Inclusion criteria

• Self-identified Latino adult patients with type II diabetes
• Admitted to general medicine floors at Brigham and Women's Hospital
• Preferred language: English or Spanish

Exclusion criteria

• Critical illness
• dementia, delirium, or other condition that limits ability to participate in education and consent process