Increasing Colorectal Cancer Screening Using an Enhanced Call Reminder Program

Authors:

Stephenie Kennedy, West Virginia University
Mary Ellen Conn (Presenter)
West Virginia University

Susan Eason, West Virginia University
Dannell Boatman, West Virginia University
Taylor Daugherty, West Virginia University
Adam Baus, West Virginia University
Cecil Pollard, West Virginia University

Public Health Statement: Increasing colorectal cancer (CRC) screening among persons aged 50–75 reduces incidence and mortality.

Purpose: Client reminders are a proven strategy for increasing CRC screening. The type most used in primary care settings are generic letters or a single phone call. An Enhanced Call Reminder Program based on Stages of Change health theory was created to assist clinics achieve a greater return rate of fecal immunochemical tests (FIT).

Methods/Approach: The Program was conducted in 5 health systems with 12 clinics and worked closely with clinical staff to design practice-flow protocols for FIT distribution and tracking; identify staff to make up to 3 follow-up calls; train staff on Stages of Change Theory; and use an algorithm to determine patient’s Stage of Change and tracking log for follow-up and data collection. Tailored messaging was developed for each Stage of Change to be used during the reminder call to motivate patients to complete and return the test.

Results: Data was collected on the number of FITs handed out, number of calls made for unreturned FITs and number of FITs returned after calling. Preliminary data showed 3,110 FITs were handed out, 1,461 did not initially return and needed follow-up calls, 2,435 calls were made to motivate patients to return the FIT, and 34% of the initially unreturned FIT tests were completed after a call.

Conclusions/Implications: This program helps primary care systems evaluate practice workflows and establish appropriate protocols, and equips them with tools to track patients and improve preventive care.