Navigator Training and Role
In designing the TN role for this study, an ecological assessment
approach34-36 and a motivational interviewing
style37, 38 was adopted. The consensus statements on
transition12, 24 recommend areas of attention for
clinicians; a typically under-addressed area is a focus on future
goals.39 The TN training modules emphasized
investigating, acknowledging, and supporting the future goals of AYAs
with SCD. TN training included the consensus statements, online
healthcare transition modules and continuing
education40, 41, related
literature42, transition materials designed for
patients and families by the institution and recommended local and
national resources on the web43 (see Supplemental 1).
Educational materials specific to SCD inheritance, pathophysiology,
treatment, complications, and self-management were also incorporated.
The intervention could be implemented by a TN with a social work,
nursing, or patient educator background.