Commercial fishing presents comprehensive health challenges extending beyond injury prevention. Recent research demonstrates significant mental health impacts, musculoskeletal disorders, and healthcare navigation barriers affecting both individual well-being and workforce retention (Roome et al., 2025; Sorensen et al., 2022; Lincoln et al., 2021). Studies show that roughly 40% of fishermen report pain significantly impedes their sleep, while governance and policy factors create additional health implications for fishing families (Sorensen et al., 2025).
This research directly addresses NIOSH Strategic Plan Goal 2 (Promote safe and healthy work design) and NORA AgFF Priority 3 (Health services research). Pacific Northwest fishing communities face unique healthcare challenges: seasonal employment complicating insurance coverage, geographic isolation limiting provider access, and complex navigation needs for self-employed workers. Mental health stigma compounds these barriers while Latino and Native American maritime workers face additional cultural and accessibility challenges.
The Fishing Partnership Support Services (FPSS) in Massachusetts successfully implemented Community Health Worker models serving New England fishing communities since 1995, documenting 74% increased healthcare utilization and 85% improved safety practices. However, Pacific Northwest fishing communities differ significantly in demographics (higher Latino workforce), healthcare systems (different state programs), and geographic challenges (larger coastal areas). This pilot addresses PNASH Center priorities: preventing AgFF injuries through evidence-based interventions, protecting vulnerable worker populations, and supporting practical solutions through community partnerships.
Eddie Kasner, PhD, MPH, CSP, University of Washington; and, Amelia Vaughan, MLIS, and Amanda Gladics, MS, Oregon State University. Health Navigation Barriers and Workforce Retention in Pacific Northwest Fishing Communities: A Needs Assessment for Community-Based Intervention.