Barriers and Facilitators to Trust in the COVID-19 New York City Test and Trace Program.

Chau, Michelle M.; Larson, Rita; Paul, Margaret M.; Massar, Rachel E.; Kwok, Lorraine; Berry, Carolyn A.; Thorpe, Lorna E.; Bendik, Stefanie; Bershteyn, Anna; Islam, Nadia S.

This article explores the significance of trust in public health response efforts, specifically in relation to the COVID-19 pandemic. Trust in authorities and institutions is crucial for promoting compliance with health protocols and behaviors. Various factors, such as information sources, media credibility, and personal experiences, influence trust. The article focuses on the New York City Test and Trace program and identifies both facilitators and barriers to trust, including the involvement of reputable organizations, adapting to community needs, and forming partnerships. The findings emphasize the importance of trust in public health initiatives and offer insights for enhancing trustworthiness. The article also discusses the implementation of the Test & Trace (T2) program in New York City during the COVID-19 pandemic. The program established partnerships with community-based organizations (CBOs) and community advisory boards (CABs) that had existing relationships with the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH). Trusted sources of information, such as local media outlets, were utilized to effectively communicate COVID-19 information and resources. Hiring frontline staff from local communities who shared similar demographics and identities with community members helped to foster trust. However, barriers to trust included historical mistrust in government and the medical establishment, inconsistent messaging, and misinformation. Recommendations for enhancing trust in public health responses include building relationships with trusted organizations, conducting early media campaigns, and actively addressing misinformation.

PANDEMIC preparedness; INSTITUTIONAL review boards; COVID-19 pandemic; CULTURAL pluralism; PUBLIC health officers; EMIGRATION & immigration; UNEMPLOYMENT; COMMUNICATIVE disorders

Journal of Urban Health, 2024, Vol 101, Issue 5, p879

1099-3460

Academic Journal

10.1007/s11524-024-00911-6