Evidence Library

Abstract: Aim: To examine the factors that influence minority service users’ decisions to get involved and stay engaged in developing healthcare policy and practice. Method: A case study of user participation in a Dutch mental health advocacy project involving migrants from Cape Verde. The researchers used the Participation Chain Model as a conceptual framework. Findings/ recommendations: The findings suggest that with the right effort marginalised minority users can be effectively involved in healthcare decision-making. It requires a proactive approach, personally inviting individuals to get involved. The factors which motivate people to get involved, getting help for themselves or more commonly, wishing to help others access healthcare, are important but not sufficient for involvement. Marginalised groups also need to build their confidence, capacity and a sense of entitlement to express their views and maximize the opportunities from involvement. This requires developing the right kind of spaces for dialogue that achieve empowerment and bring about change.

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Categories: public health
reflecting on public involvement in research
journal article

Date Entered: 2015/07/30

Date Edited: 2015/07/30