P-037 FEASIBILITY OF A PILOT ELECTRONIC DATA COLLECTION WITH MIGRANT AND SEASONAL FARMWORKERS IN IOWA

Abstract

Introduction Including migrant farmworkers (MFW) in research is essential to delivering culturally appropriate health and public health interventions. Little is known about MFWs’ willingness to engage in research and the feasibility of data collection methods for this group. Methods This pilot study investigated the feasibility of surveying MFW using cellphone technology. We recruited 50 MFW to participate in automated text messaging surveys for 4-12 weeks. Participants received 4 questions per week, including mental health questions adapted from the Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale (GAD2) and the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ2), and healthcare access questions developed by the authors. Results 49 participants answered text messages. 35 participants (70%) continued responding 12 weeks after enrollment or later, while 6 (12%) stopped participating by 4 weeks. Responses declined significantly over time (Weekly OR = 0.87, 95% CI 0.85-0.90, p < 0.001), but there were no significant differences in declines between mental health questions and other questions (p = 0.7). Discussion This study aimed to determine the feasibility of engaging 50 MFW in research using mobile texting technology. We were able to recruit 50 participants and sustain participation over time. Waning participation was likely related in part to the reality MFWs live a mobile lifestyle, have limited access to stable mobile technology and are engaged in nearly around the clock work. Importantly, academic institutions do not optimally enable the administration of community engaged research with hard-to-reach populations. Conclusion Engaging MFW in research using mobile technology is challenging but feasible.