Implementation of a Statewide Web-Based Caregiver Resource Information System (CareNav): Mixed Methods Study

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Health Informatics
• Implementation Science

Background:

• Family caregivers face challenges accessing timely community-based support due to constant care demands.
• Web-based resources offer a promising solution for real-time caregiver assistance.
• The CareNav system is a comprehensive web platform designed to support caregivers through assessment, care planning, and resource access.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the statewide implementation of the CareNav system.
• To utilize the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research to synthesize the evaluation findings.
• To identify facilitators and barriers in deploying a technology solution for caregiver support.

Main Methods:

• A mixed-methods study combining surveys and in-depth qualitative interviews.
• Survey of 82 trained staff members.
• Qualitative interviews with 11 California Caregiver Resource Center (CRC) teams and 3 key informants, analyzed using qualitative descriptive methods and mapped to the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research.

Main Results:

• Findings highlight the importance of the outer and inner settings, intervention characteristics, and staff attributes in the implementation process.
• Critical success factors included strong leadership, effective communication, process harmonization across sites, and staff motivation.
• The system aimed to provide more accessible and convenient services for clients.

Conclusions:

• The study provides valuable insights into the implementation of technology in community-based agencies.
• Findings have implications for organizations aiming to enhance their web-based service offerings for caregivers.
• Successful technology deployment requires attention to organizational factors and strategic planning.