Work

123 The screening ambassador network: enhancing healthcare access for ethnic minorities in Denmark

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: PTH 2: Determinants of Health Disease and Interventions 2, B307 (FCSH), September 3, 2025, 15:45 - 16:39 Aim The aim of this project was to establish the Screening Ambassador Network, consisting of members from diverse ethnic minority groups, including refugees and migrants, in vulnerable residential areas across the Central Denmark Region. The goal was to enhance participation in cancer screening programmes and use the target group as a ‘gateway’ to reach more vulnerable migrants. The target group represents significant diversity, with varying language skills and backgrounds. Methods The network was formed by recruiting trusted representatives from all 18 targeted areas, using an inclusive and culturally adapted approach and ensuring full regional coverage. These ambassadors were selected based on their strong connections to their communities, ensuring they were trusted and respected figures. They were supported by the Department of Public Health Programmes and are now actively engaged in planning and implementing local activities to promote cancer screening and its benefits, acting as key links between healthcare services and their communities. Results To date, the network has established ambassadors in all 18 areas, ensuring representation across the entire Central Denmark Region. This comprehensive coverage has facilitated increased cancer screening awareness and engagement in the target population. Through the recruitment of trusted community representatives, the network has demonstrated potential as a resource for other health-related initiatives. These representatives, who play a pivotal role in trust-building and facilitating communication, are positioned to expand the network’s reach to address additional public health priorities, such as vaccination, mental health, and chronic disease prevention. Results for screening participation are expected mid-2025. Conclusions The Screening Ambassador Network has successfully achieved full implementation across all 18 targeted areas and has demonstrated its potential to enhance cancer screening participation among ethnic minorities. This model offers a scalable approach for other public health systems and holds promise for broader application in supporting future health initiatives within marginalised communities.

Source: European Journal of Public Health

DOI: 10.1093/eurpub/ckaf180.240