“Black People Like Me”: A virtual conference series to engage underserved patients with asthma in patient centered outcomes research

Abstract

Background In response to racial inequity in asthma, asthma-related research among diverse patients is vital. However, people from historically marginalized groups are underrepresented in clinical and patient-centered outcomes research (PCOR). The “Black People Like Me” (BPLM) virtual conference series was developed to: (1) engage Black patients with asthma and their caregivers in education and discussions about asthma, and (2) encourage involvement in PCOR. Education about COVID-19 and COVID-19 vaccination was also incorporated. Methods The Project Advisory Group consisting of Black patients, clergy, physicians, and a program evaluator met monthly to develop BPLM. The program consisted of free one-hour virtual sessions held monthly for 6 months. BPLM was promoted through the Allergy & Asthma Network website, emails, social media, and personal contacts with a recruitment goal of ≥ 100 Black patients with asthma or caregivers. Program evaluations, interactive polling questions during each session, and participant pre- and post-session tests were conducted. Results Sessions averaged 658 participants including Black patients, family members, caregivers, Black clergy, health care providers, and other concerned community. Overall, 77% of participants strongly agreed with satisfaction with the sessions. Pre- and post-tests demonstrated that participants exhibited growth in knowledge regarding asthma risk, PCOR, and PCOR research opportunities for patients, exhibited preexisting and sustained knowledge regarding COVID-19 vaccination and side effects, and demonstrated an increased sense of empowerment during healthcare visits. Conclusions BPLM demonstrated that a virtual platform can successfully engage Black communities. Incorporating clergy and religious organizations was critical in developing the trust of the Black community towards BPLM.

Health disparities in allergic diseases

“…In attempts to diversify research participants, the organization “Black People Like Me” utilized Black clergy, Black doctors and Black patients to organize virtual sessions to discuss opportunities for patient-centered outcomes research and to connect the participants with research opportunities. Pre and posttests demonstrated that participants exhibited growth in knowledge regarding asthma risk, patient-centered outcomes research and research opportunities for patients [ 25 ▪ ]. Another institution used a multipronged approach to recruit research participants more equitably including letters, text messages, phone calls and in-person approaches.…”