Scoping Review on the Use of Navigation Services to Improve Accessibility of Programming for People With Intellectual Disabilities

BACKGROUND: Canadians with intellectual disabilities experience barriers in accessing federal government services and programmes. Evolving from established models of patient navigation, service navigation has emerged as a potential way to address systematic barriers. METHODS: A scoping review was conducted with a search strategy implemented across six databases, including APA PsycInfo, Medline, CINAHL, Embase, Scopus, and ProQuest Sociology Collection. RESULTS: One hundred and twelve studies were identified as relevant to the research question. Despite variance in terminology, definition, and practice, included studies affirm the need for navigational support and highlight the potential impact of support. CONCLUSIONS: The included literature identifies navigation support as a promising practice to remove barriers and advance access to programs and services for people with intellectual disabilities. Additional study is needed to specify the impact related to accessing federal programs and services in a Canadian context.