Case Study of a Comprehensive Team-Based Approach to Increase Colorectal Cancer Screening

Abstract

Introduction Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths among men and women in West Virginia. In addition, 51% of all colorectal cancers diagnosed in West Virginia from 2012 to 2016 were detected at either regional (31%) or distant (20%) stages indicating a need for improved early detection. Methods West Virginia University Cheat Lake Physicians participated in the West Virginia Program to Increase Colorectal Cancer Screening, a program of Cancer Prevention and Control at the WVU Cancer Institute. As a result, Cheat Lake Physicians assembled a team of health care professionals to implement evidence-based interventions and system changes including provider assessment and feedback, patient reminders, accurate data capture, and tracking of CRC screening tests. Results These efforts resulted in a 15.8% increase in colorectal cancer screening rates within one year of implementation. Additionally, the clinic achieved a 66% return rate for Fecal Immunochemical Test kits, an inexpensive, stool-based colorectal cancer screening test. Implications The utilization of a team-based approach to patient care yields positive results that can be carried over to other cancer and disease prevention efforts in primary care clinics.

Addressing barriers to colorectal cancer screening in a federally qualified health center

“…Several members vocalized strong support for expansion of the CRC screening initiatives both at the FQHC and the wider community they serve. Evidence-based practice supports a standardized process for ordering the chosen CRC screening test and employing a team-based approach to facilitate test completion in overdue patients (Gupta et al, 2014;Sarfaty, 2008;Wright et al, 2021).…”

“…The first is a strong recommendation from the health care provider and a standardized process within the practice setting to order the chosen test. The second is accurate documentation and a team-based approach to provide reminders to patients who have not completed their CRC screening (Gupta et al, 2014;Sarfaty, 2008;Wright et al, 2021).…”