Work

Process evaluation of a migrant-inclusive risk communication and community engagement intervention: lessons from the Health Handbook for Vietnamese Workers in Japan

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Migrant workers in Japan face persistent barriers in accessing timely and culturally appropriate health information owing to language constraints, complex administrative systems, and fragmented risk communication channels. These challenges have been exacerbated during the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting the need for migrant-inclusive risk communication and community engagement (RCCE). In response, the Government of Vietnam, the International Organization for Migration (IOM), and Japanese partners collaboratively developed the Health Handbook for Vietnamese Workers in Japan as a transnational RCCE intervention. METHODS: This study evaluates a process the development, dissemination, monitoring, and iterative adaptation of the Handbook. Multiple data sources were triangulated, including mixed-methods situation analyses, technical working group documentation, Patient Education Materials Assessment Tool (PEMAT) assessment, digital analytics, and qualitative stakeholder feedback. Qualitative data were analysed using an inductive thematic approach. Themes generated from the data were subsequently interpreted in relation to RCCE principles and the social determinants of health framework to identify mechanisms relevant to the implementation of a migrant-inclusive RCCE. RESULTS: The evaluation identified three interrelated mechanisms that appeared to support migrant-inclusive RCCE: (1) addressing structural vulnerabilities; (2) deploying multichannel communication strategies tailored to migrants; and (3) engaging migrant communities and stakeholders. The Handbook was designed to provide practical health information, particularly on occupational health, healthcare navigation, and rights-related topics. Digital analytics showed an increased reach following collaboration with community-based platforms, while the Patient Education Materials Assessment Tool (PEMAT) assessment indicated high understandability (81.3%) but moderate actionability (66.7%), indicating a need for iterative revisions. The intervention provided a platform for multi-sectoral collaboration and supported the continuity of health messaging across the migration cycle. CONCLUSIONS: This study illustrates that migrant-inclusive RCCE, when implemented through participatory, multi-sectoral, and transnational approaches, may support more equitable access to health information and contribute to health system resilience. Integrating such approaches within national preparedness frameworks may strengthen effective emergency responses and help address the structural determinants that shape migrant health by influencing exposure to health risks, access to reliable information and essential services, and the ability to seek timely and appropriate care.

Source: Tropical Medicine and Health

DOI: 10.1186/s41182-026-01101-7