Effectiveness of Disseminating the Migrant Clinician’s Reference Manual Online

Abstract

Migrant and seasonal farmwokers are a socially disadvantaged population, working in the Nation’s most dangerous industry. Due to social isolation, cultural and linguistic barriers, coupled with a hazardous work environment, this population is thought to be at increased risk for work-related health problems. The primary sources of healthcare for farmworkers are federally funded migrant health programs located in highly agricultural areas throughout the United States. However, studies show that healthcare providers are ill-equipped to properly diagnosis and treat this patient population. A clinic resource was developed to meet the needs of those serving farmworkers in the Northeast. This case study evaluates the effectiveness of disseminating this resource on the World Wide Web. The migrant health center environment and prior Internet usage were of particular interest. Application of the Sense Making theory suggests critical gaps exist in the health literacy of migrant and seasonal farmworkers, wherein the migrant health reference manual serves as a bridge between provider and patient. Findings further suggest that the manual has a positive impact on patient care by addressing six focus areas of the Health People 2010 Health Literacy Initiative (USDHHS, 2000, p29): 1) Access to Quality Health Services 2) Arthritis, Osteoporosis, and Chronic Back Conditions 3) Environmental Health 4) Health Communication 5) Occupational Safety and Health 6) Public Health Infrastructure