To identify barriers to Parkinson’s disease (PD) care among underserved populations in Los Angeles County and to develop a community-driven, technology-based intervention to promote equitable access.

Parkinson’s disease (PD) affects nearly one million individuals in the United States and requires continuous, multidisciplinary care to maintain function and quality of life. However, structural inequities such as high medication costs, limited transportation, and language barriers disproportionately impact underserved communities. In Los Angeles County, where cultural and linguistic diversity is vast, these disparities are further compounded by low disease awareness and digital access gaps. Addressing these challenges requires interventions that are both patient-centered and community-informed.

A mixed-methods needs assessment was conducted with 110 individuals living with PD across Los Angeles County, recruited through local clinics and support groups. The survey examined perceived barriers to care, patterns of healthcare utilization, and interest in digital health tools. Data were analyzed to identify priority areas for intervention and guide the design of a mobile health platform.

Findings revealed substantial unmet needs: 62% of participants cited medication cost as a major barrier and 72% reported transportation challenges in accessing specialty clinics. Notably, 70% expressed strong interest in a mobile platform providing patient education, cost transparency, and localized resource navigation. Respondents emphasized the need for culturally relevant and multilingual support to foster trust and accessibility.

Project P.A.T.H. (Parkinson’s Access to Technology & Health) was developed in direct response to these findings. This community-driven initiative leverages a digital platform to centralize PD resources, along with planned outreach programs to improve education, affordability, and care coordination. By combining technology with culturally sensitive engagement, Project P.A.T.H. aims to reduce disparities and establish a scalable model for equitable PD care delivery.