[Characteristics and effectiveness of healthcare navigators in innovation fund projects: a scoping review].

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

Individuals with complex healthcare needs, such as those with chronic and multiple conditions, require continuous, cross-sectoral care. However, an increasingly complex healthcare system, characterized by a strict separation between outpatient and inpatient care, hampers continuity of care and contributes to overuse, underuse, and misuse of services. Healthcare navigators ("Gesundheitslotsen") aim to address these challenges by supporting affected individuals in navigating the healthcare system.

Methods

This scoping review provides an overview of the target populations, roles, and qualifications of navigators as well as the legal framework and effectiveness of navigators studied in projects funded by the German Innovation Fund (New Forms of Care) since 2016. All

SUBMITTER: Harst L 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12852287 | biostudies-literature | 2026 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature