A culturally tailored navigator program for colorectal cancer screening in a community health center: a randomized, controlled trial

Perceived Discrimination and Pandemic Attitudes on Cancer Screening Behaviors Among Asian American Women: A Sequential Explanatory Mixed-Methods Study

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to assess how pandemic-related health concerns and discrimination affected cancer screenings among Asian American women (AAW).

METHODS

A two-phase explanatory mixed-methods study was conducted. In phase 1, a survey was distributed among AAW eligible for lung, breast, or colorectal cancer screening to assess delays during the pandemic, concerns about contracting coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), barriers to care, and experiences of discrimination. In phase 2, four qualitative focus group discussions, stratified by generational status and history of delayed cancer screening, were conducted to explore a priori domains of interest on cancer screening during the pandemic and perceived discrimination. Logistic regression analyses were performed to identify factors associated with delays, followed by deductive thematic qualitative analysis.

RESULTS

In phase 1, of 225 participants recruited, 166 met the inclusion criteria (74%). Most participants were first-generation Americans (67%), were employed (65%), and had higher education (67% with a master's degree or higher). Forty percent reported delays in cancer screening. Factors associated with delays included worry about contracting COVID-19 (adjusted odds ratio, 2.57; 95% confidence interval, 1.05-6.28; P = .038) and spreading it to family or friends (adjusted odds ratio, 5.78; 95% confidence interval, 1.50-22.3; P = .011). No association between discrimination and delayed cancer screening was found. In phase 2, focus group discussions (n = 19) revealed that first-generation women who delayed screening faced barriers due to a fear of infection and perceived discrimination. Perceived discrimination affected daily behaviors and sense of safety, though less so in medical settings.

CONCLUSIONS

Delays in cancer screening among AAW were associated with patients' concerns about contracting and spreading COVID-19. Radiology practices can lead collaborative efforts on cancer screening campaigns that emphasize early detection and promote psychological safety.

Evaluation of a Tailored Patient Navigation Program for Improving Multitarget Stool DNA Test Adherence

BACKGROUND

Multitarget stool DNA (mt-sDNA) is an increasingly utilized noninvasive option for colorectal cancer screening; however, its impact is limited by imperfect test adherence. Tailored patient navigation (TPN) improves adherence for other cancer screening tests, but its role in mt-sDNA is not known.

AIM

Determine whether TPN improves mt-sDNA completion and reduces sample could not be processed (SCNBP) result rates.

SETTING

A large, urban, academic primary care clinic serving a medically vulnerable population.

PARTICIPANTS

All patients who received mt-sDNA order in 2022 and 2023.

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

A patient navigator outreached all patients ordered mt-sDNA to support test completion during the 12-month intervention period in 2023.

PROGRAM EVALUATION

Rates of mt-sDNA completion within 90 days and SCNBP results were compared between the 12-month intervention and pre-intervention periods using generalized estimating equations. A total of 2694 patients received 3297 orders during the study. TPN was significantly associated with improved rates of 90-day mt-sDNA completion (51% vs. 39%, OR 1.67, p < .001) and SCNBP results (4% vs. 5%, OR 0.55, p < .001).

DISCUSSION

Tailored patient navigation was associated with improved rates of mt-sDNA completion and SCNBP results despite built-in navigation services provided by the manufacturer. TPN for mt-sDNA is a promising strategy for enhancing colorectal cancer screening uptake.

Socioeconomic Inequalities in Participation in Colorectal Cancer Screening in Ontario, Canada: A Decomposition Analysis

BACKGROUND

The relationship between socioeconomic status and colorectal cancer screening in Canada remains poorly understood. This study aims to measure and explain the extent of socioeconomic inequalities in colorectal cancer screening participation in Ontario, Canada.

METHODS

This study assesses socioeconomic inequalities in colorectal cancer screening uptake in Ontario among adults of ages 50 to 74 years (n = 12,039) utilizing cross-sectional data from the 2017 to 2018 Canadian Community Health Survey (CCHS). The Wagstaff index and the Erreygers index were used to quantify and decompose income-related inequality in colorectal cancer screening participation.

RESULTS

The results revealed an overall colorectal cancer screening rate of 71.7%, with higher rates among females (78.4%) compared with males (69.4%). The positive values of the Wagstaff index (0.193; 95% confidence interval, 0.170-0.215) and the Erreygers index (0.156; 95% confidence interval, 0.138-0.174) indicated a pro-rich inequality in colorectal cancer screening participation in Ontario (i.e., screening is more concentrated among wealthier individuals). The decomposition analysis identified income (71.61%), education (8.61%), and language barriers with healthcare providers (5.76%) as the primary factors contributing to the observed income-related inequality in colorectal cancer screening participation.

CONCLUSIONS

Income is the primary driver of socioeconomic inequality, requiring targeted strategies to boost screening rates among low-income residents. Addressing education and language barriers through awareness initiatives and language support can reduce socioeconomic inequalities in cancer screening uptake in Ontario.

IMPACT

Our study reveals significant socioeconomic inequality in colorectal cancer screening in Ontario, driven by income, education, and language barriers, underscoring the need for targeted interventions to promote equitable access.

Predictors of Colorectal Cancer Screening and Screening Modalities among Patients seen at Federally Qualified Health Centers Funded by the United States Health Resources and Services Administration

Introduction

Federally qualified health centers provide primary care services to millions of low-income patients in the United States who face challenges accessing colorectal cancer (CRC) screening. We aimed to understand how patient-level factors influence CRC screening participation and screening modality choice in this setting.

Methods

We examined data from the 2022 Health Center Patient Survey, 2021 Uniform Data System, and Area Health Resource File. We performed generalized multilevel logistic regression and multinomial regression to measure associations between our independent variables and receipt of any CRC screening and of screening modalities.

Results

Among 1584 patients ages 50-75, most (56 %) reported having CRC screening, including 33 % with endoscopic screening only, 16 % with stool-based screening only, and 7 % with multiple modalities. Selected factors associated with any CRC screening included having five or more health center visits in the past year (aOR = 1.66, 95 %CI = 1.07-2.56), being insured (Medicaid aOR = 2.25, 95 %CI = 1.44-3.54; other insurance aOR = 2.69, 95 %CI = 1.51-4.82), living within 30  minutes of the health center (aOR = 1.93, 95 %CI = 1.15-3.25), having multiple comorbidities (aOR = 1.72, 95 %CI = 1.13-2.63), using telehealth (aOR = 1.52, 95 %CI = 1.02-2.27), and having a flu shot last year (aOR = 1.77, 95 %CI = 1.29-2.45). We observed that patients who are non-Hispanic Black (aOR = 3.52, 95 %CI = 1.28-9.68) and who do not speak English well or at all (aOR = 5.54, 95 %CI = 1.64-18.75) reported having multiple modalities.

Conclusion

Federally qualified health center patients reported endoscopic CRC screening more commonly than stool-based screening, and barriers to access such as distance to the health center and English proficiency were impactful. Increasing CRC screening in low-income populations requires improving access and promoting opportunities for less invasive screening.

Tailored recruitment interventions to improve bowel cancer screening in Arabic and Mandarin speaking groups: Modelled cost-effectiveness

BACKGROUND

Effective bowel cancer screening is freely available in Australia, however, there are inequities in utilisation amongst non-English speakers at home. This study estimates the health impacts and cost-effectiveness of recruitment interventions targeted at Arabic and Mandarin speaking populations in Victoria, Australia to increase bowel cancer screening participation.

METHODS

A Markov microsimulation model simulated the development of bowel cancer, considering National Bowel Cancer Screening Program participation rates. Culturally specific recruitment interventions e.g., community education and tailored paid media for 50-74-year-olds were compared to usual practice. A cost-utility analysis was conducted over a 50-year time horizon from a healthcare perspective, to estimate the cost per quality-adjusted life year (QALY) based on plausible effectiveness levels. Costs are in 2019 Australian dollars.

RESULTS

Intervention costs were $6.90 per person for the Arabic speaking group and $3.10 for Mandarin speakers. The estimated cost/QALY was $2,781 (95% uncertainty interval [UI]: $2,144─$3,277) when screening increased by 0.2% in the Arabic group, and an estimated 5-6 additional adenoma and cancer cases were detected. In the Mandarin group, the estimated cost/QALY was $1,024/QALY (95%UI: $749─$1,272) when screening increased by 1.1%, and an estimated 18-23 additional adenoma and cancer cases were detected.

CONCLUSIONS

Culturally specific recruitment interventions to increase bowel cancer screening are inexpensive and likely to be cost-effective. Improvements in capturing language spoken at home by the National program would facilitate more precise estimates of the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of these interventions.

The Development of a Digital Patient Navigation Tool to Increase Colorectal Cancer Screening Among Federally Qualified Health Center Patients: Acceptability and Usability Testing

BACKGROUND

Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) are an essential place for historically underserved patients to access health care, including screening for colorectal cancer (CRC), one of the leading causes of cancer death in the United States. Novel interventions aimed at increasing CRC screening completion rates at FQHCs are crucial.

OBJECTIVE

This study conducts user testing of a digital patient navigation tool, called eNav, designed to support FQHC patients in preparing for, requesting, and completing CRC screening tests.

METHODS

We recruited English- and Spanish-speaking patients (N=20) at an FQHC in New York City to user-test the eNav website (2 user tests; n=10 participants per user test). In each user test, participants engaged in a "think aloud" exercise and a qualitative interview to summarize and review their feedback. They also completed a baseline questionnaire gathering data about demographics, technology and internet use, medical history, and health literacy, and completed surveys to assess the website's acceptability and usability. Based on participant feedback from the first user test, we modified the eNav website for a second round of testing. Then, feedback from the second user test was used to modify and finalize the eNav website.

RESULTS

Survey results supported the overall usability and acceptability of the website. The average System Usability Scale score for our first user test was 75.25; for the second, it was 75.28. The average Acceptability E-scale score for our first user test was 28.3; for the second, it was 29.2. These scores meet suggested benchmarks for usability and acceptability. During qualitative think-aloud exercises, in both user tests, many participants favorably perceived the website as motivating, interesting, informative, and user-friendly. Respondents also gave suggestions on how to improve the website's content, usability, accessibility, and appeal. We found that some participants did not have the digital devices or internet access needed to interact with the eNav website at home.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on participant feedback on the eNav website and reported limitations to digital access across both user tests, we made modifications to the content and design of the website. We also designed alternative methods of engagement with eNav to increase the tool's usability, accessibility, and impact for patients with diverse needs, including those with limited access to devices or the internet at home. Next, we will test the eNav intervention in a randomized controlled trial to evaluate the efficacy of the eNav website for improving CRC screening uptake among patients treated at FQHCs.

Effectiveness of Community Health Worker-Led Interventions in Enhancing Colorectal Cancer Screening Uptake in Racial and Ethnic Minority Populations: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The colorectal cancer (CRC) screening uptake rate is substantially lower in ethnic minority populations than in the general population. Racial and ethnic minority individuals experience more barriers in obtaining a screening test for CRC when compared with the non-Hispanic White population.

OBJECTIVE

To examine the effectiveness of community health worker-led interventions in improving the CRC screening uptake rate in racial and ethnic minority populations.

METHODS

Five databases, EMBASE, CINAHL, MEDLINE, Scopus, and PubMed, were systematically searched, and reference lists of the identified articles were manually searched for relevant articles in May 2022. Only randomized controlled trials were included.

RESULTS

A total of 10 randomized controlled trials conducted in the United States were included in this review. The findings of the meta-analysis showed that CRC screening uptake was enhanced in participants receiving community health worker-led interventions compared with those receiving no intervention (odds ratio, 2.25; 95% confidence interval, 1.48-3.44; P < .001). The subgroup analysis by diverse racial and ethnic groups and number of components (single vs multiple) of the community health worker-led interventions showed that multicomponent interventions were more effective in increasing the CRC uptake rate among all racial and ethnic groups regardless of their background.

CONCLUSIONS

Multicomponent community health worker-led interventions can improve CRC screening uptake in racial and ethnic minority populations.

IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE

The findings of the present review show that multicomponent community health worker-led interventions are shown to be effective to improve the CRC screening uptake targeting other racial and ethnic minority groups in other countries.

Patient Navigation for Lung Cancer Screening at a Health Care for the Homeless Program: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Importance

People experiencing homelessness die of lung cancer at rates more than double those in the general population. Lung cancer screening (LCS) with low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) reduces lung cancer mortality, but the circumstances of homelessness create barriers to LCS participation.

Objective

To determine whether patient navigation, added to usual care, improved LCS LDCT receipt at a large Health Care for the Homeless (HCH) program.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This parallel group, pragmatic, mixed-methods randomized clinical trial was conducted at Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program (BHCHP), a federally qualified HCH program that provides tailored, multidisciplinary care to nearly 10 000 homeless-experienced patients annually. Eligible individuals had a lifetime history of homelessness, had a BHCHP primary care practitioner (PCP), were proficient in English, and met the pre-2022 Medicare coverage criteria for LCS (aged 55-77 years, ≥30 pack-year history of smoking, and smoking within the past 15 years). The study was conducted between November 20, 2020, and March 29, 2023.

Intervention

Participants were randomized 2:1 to usual BHCHP care either with or without patient navigation. Following a theory-based, patient-centered protocol, the navigator provided lung cancer education, facilitated LCS shared decision-making visits with PCPs, assisted participants in making and attending LCS LDCT appointments, arranged follow-up when needed, and offered tobacco cessation support for current smokers.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary outcome was receipt of a 1-time LCS LDCT within 6 months after randomization, with between-group differences assessed by χ2 analysis. Qualitative interviews assessed the perceptions of participants and PCPs about the navigation intervention.

Results

In all, 260 participants (mean [SD] age, 60.5 [4.7] years; 184 males [70.8%]; 96 non-Hispanic Black participants [36.9%] and 96 non-Hispanic White participants [36.9%]) were randomly assigned to usual care with (n = 173) or without (n = 87) patient navigation. At 6 months after randomization, 75 participants in the patient navigation arm (43.4%) and 8 of those in the usual care-only arm (9.2%) had completed LCS LDCT (P < .001), representing a 4.7-fold difference. Interviews with participants in the patient navigation arm and PCPs identified key elements of the intervention: multidimensional social support provision, care coordination activities, and interpersonal skills of the navigator.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this randomized clinical trial, patient navigation support produced a 4.7-fold increase in 1-time LCS LDCT completion among HCH patients in Boston. Future work should focus on longer-term screening participation and outcomes.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04308226.

Evaluating the Reach of a Patient Navigation Program for Follow-up Colonoscopy in a Large Federally Qualified Health Center

Patient navigation (PN) has been shown to improve participation in cancer screening, including colorectal cancer screening, and is now a recommended practice by the Community Preventive Services Task Force. Despite the effectiveness of PN programs, little is known about the number of contacts needed to successfully reach patients or about the demographic and healthcare utilization factors associated with reach. PRECISE was an individual randomized study of PN versus usual care conducted as a partnership between two large health systems in the Pacific Northwest. The navigation program was a six-topic area telephonic program designed to support patients with an abnormal fecal test result to obtain a follow-up colonoscopy. We report the number of contact attempts needed to successfully reach navigated patients. We used logistic regression to report the demographic and healthcare utilization characteristics associated with patients allocated to PN who were successfully reached. We identified 1,200 patients with an abnormal fecal immunochemical test result, of whom 970 were randomized into the study (45.7% were female, 17.5% were Spanish-speaking, and the mean age was 60.8 years). Of the 479 patients allocated to the PN intervention, 382 (79.7%) were reached within 18 call attempts, and nearly all (n = 356; 93.2%) were reached within six contact attempts. Patient characteristics associated with reach were race, county of residence, and body mass index. Our findings can guide future efforts to optimize the reach of PN programs. Prevention Relevance: The findings from this large study can inform clinic-level implementation of future PN programs in Federally Qualified Health Centers to improve the reach of patients needing cancer screenings, optimize staff resources, and ultimately increase cancer screenings.

Evaluating an immunization carpool service for women in rural areas for facilitating routine childhood immunizations in Pakistan -a feasibility study on acceptability, demand, and implementation

Introduction

Poor accessibility of immunization services coupled with limited options for transportation and socio-cultural norms that hinder women's mobility are among the key factors contributing to poor immunization coverage in rural areas. We assessed the feasibility and acceptability of establishing a free-of-cost, women-only carpool service for immunization in a rural setting in Pakistan and evaluated its preliminary impact on immunization coverage and timeliness among children.

Methods

We conducted a feasibility study in four selected immunization facilities in Shikarpur District, Sindh. A local transport vehicle was hired and branded as an immunization carpool service. Women having un- or under-immunized children aged ≤2 years were invited to visit immunization facilities using carpool vehicles. Information on demographic indicators and service experience was collected. Child immunization details were extracted using the government's provincial electronic immunization registry to estimate immunization coverage and timeliness.

Results

Between January and October 2020, six immunization carpool vehicles provided uninterrupted service and transported 2422 women-child pairs, completing 4691 immunization visits. Majority of women reported that the carpool service improved accessibility (99.6%) by offering group travel (82.9%) and reducing their dependency on family members (93.4%). Preliminary estimates reported an increase in immunization coverage and timeliness across antigens among participating children compared to non-participating children, with significant increase in proportion for BCG coverage (38.1%; p < 0.001, CI: 32.8%, 43.4%) and measles-2 timeliness (18%; p < 0.001, CI: 13.3%, 22.4%).

Conclusion

A women-only immunization carpool service implemented within a rural setting is feasible and highly acceptable. Key factors contributing to the model's success include increased mobility and independence of women, cost-savings, and a culturally and contextually appropriate mechanism of transport embedded within the local setting. Increased accessibility to health services also contributed to improved immunization coverage and timeliness among children.

Patient Navigation Plus Tailored Digital Video Disc Increases Colorectal Cancer Screening Among Low-Income and Minority Patients Who Did Not Attend a Scheduled Screening Colonoscopy: A Randomized Trial

BACKGROUND

Up to 50% of people scheduled for screening colonoscopy do not complete this test and no studies have focused on minority and low-income populations. Interventions are needed to improve colorectal cancer (CRC) screening knowledge, reduce barriers, and provide alternative screening options. Patient navigation (PN) and tailored interventions increase CRC screening uptake, however there is limited information comparing their effectiveness or the effect of combining them.

PURPOSE

Compare the effectiveness of two interventions to increase CRC screening among minority and low-income individuals who did not attend their screening colonoscopy appointment-a mailed tailored digital video disc (DVD) alone versus the mailed DVD plus telephone-based PN compared to usual care.

METHODS

Patients (n = 371) aged 45-75 years at average risk for CRC who did not attend a screening colonoscopy appointment were enrolled and were randomized to: (i) a mailed tailored DVD; (ii) the mailed DVD plus phone-based PN; or (iii) usual care. CRC screening outcomes were from electronic medical records at 12 months. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were used to study intervention effects.

RESULTS

Participants randomized to tailored DVD plus PN were four times more likely to complete CRC screening compared to usual care and almost two and a half times more likely than those who were sent the DVD alone.

CONCLUSIONS

Combining telephone-based PN with a mailed, tailored DVD increased CRC screening among low-income and minority patients who did not attend their screening colonoscopy appointments and has potential for wide dissemination.

Social Vulnerability Index and Survivorship after Colorectal Cancer Resection

BACKGROUND

Race and socioeconomic status incompletely identify patients with colorectal cancer (CRC) at the highest risk for screening, treatment, and mortality disparities. Social vulnerability index (SVI) was designed to delineate neighborhoods requiring greater support after external health stressors, summarizing socioeconomic, household, and transportation barriers by census tract. SVI is implicated in lower cancer center use and increased complications after colectomy, but its influence on long-term prognosis is unknown. Herein, we characterized relationships between SVI and CRC survival.

STUDY DESIGN

Patients undergoing resection of stage I to IV CRC from January 2010 to May 2023 within an academic health system were identified. Clinicopathologic characteristics were abstracted using institutional National Cancer Database and NSQIP. Addresses from electronic health records were geocoded to SVI. Overall survival and cancer-specific survival were compared using Kaplan-Meier and Cox proportional hazards methods.

RESULTS

A total of 872 patients were identified, comprising 573 (66%) patients with colon tumor and 299 (34%) with rectal tumor. Patients in the top SVI quartile (32%) were more likely to be Black (41% vs 13%, p < 0.001), carry less private insurance (39% vs 48%, p = 0.02), and experience greater comorbidity (American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status III: 86% vs 71%, p < 0.001), without significant differences by acuity, stage, or CRC therapy. In multivariable analysis, high SVI remained associated with higher all-cause (hazard ratio 1.48, 95% CI 1.12 to 1.96, p < 0.01) and cancer-specific survival mortality (hazard ratio 1.71, 95% CI 1.10 to 2.67, p = 0.02).

CONCLUSIONS

High SVI was independently associated with poorer prognosis after CRC resection beyond the perioperative period. Acknowledging needs for multi-institutional evaluation and elaborating causal mechanisms, neighborhood-level vulnerability may inform targeted outreach in CRC care.

Comparison of Predictive Models for Prevention of Missed Endoscopy Appointments- failure of a Predictive Model to Outperform Overbooking Model

BACKGROUND

Patient late cancelation and nonattendance for endoscopy appointments is an ongoing problem affecting the productivity and wait times of endoscopy units. Previous research evaluated a model for predictive overbooking and had promising results.

STUDY

All endoscopy visits at an outpatient endoscopy unit during 4 nonconsecutive months were included in the data analysis. Patients who did not attend their appointment, or canceled with 48 hours of their appointment were considered nonattendees. Demographic, health, and prior visit behavior data was collected and the groups compared.

RESULTS

1780 patients attended 2331 visits in the study period. Comparing the attendee versus non-attendees, there were significant differences in mean age, prior absenteeism, prior cancelations, and total number of hospital visits. No significant differences were seen between groups in winter versus non-winter months, the day of the week, sex distribution, type of procedure booked, or whether the referral was from specialist clinic or direct to procedure. The visit cancelation proportion (calculated excluding current visit) was substantially higher in the absentee group ( P <0.0001). A predictive model was developed and compared to current booking as well as a straight overbooking of 7%. Both overbooking models performed better than the current practice, but the predictive overbooking model did not outperform straight overbooking.

CONCLUSIONS

Developing an endoscopy unit specific predictive model may not be more beneficial than straight overbooking as calculated by missed appointment percentage.

National analysis of racial disparities in emergent surgery for colorectal cancer

Background

Racial disparities in access to preoperative evaluation for colorectal cancer remain unclear. Emergent admission may indicate lack of access to timely care. The present work aimed to evaluate the association of admission type with race among patients undergoing colorectal cancer surgery.

Methods

All adults undergoing resection for colorectal cancer in 2011-2020 National Inpatient Sample were identified. Multivariable regression models were developed to examine the association of admission type with race. Primary outcome was major adverse events (MAE), including mortality and complications. Secondary outcomes included costs and length of stay (LOS). Interaction terms between year, admission type, and race were used to analyze trends.

Results

Of 722,736 patients, 67.6 % had Elective and 32.4 % Emergent admission. Black (AOR 1.38 [95 % CI 1.33-1.44]), Hispanic (1.45 [1.38-1.53]), and Asian/Pacific Islander or Native American (1.25 [1.18-1.32]) race were associated with significantly increased odds of Emergent operation relative to White. Over the study period, non-White patients consistently comprised over 5 % greater proportion of the Emergent cohort compared to Elective. Furthermore, Emergent admission was associated with 3-fold increase in mortality and complications, 5-day increment in LOS, and $10,100 increase in costs. MAE rates among Emergent patients remained greater than Elective with a widening gap over time. Non-White patients experienced significantly increased MAE regardless of admission type.

Conclusion

Non-White race was associated with increased odds of emergent colorectal cancer resection. Given the persistent disparity over the past decade, systematic approaches to alleviate racial inequities in colorectal cancer screening and improve access to timely surgical treatment are warranted.

Disparities in Diagnostic Imaging for Initial Local Staging for Rectal Cancer

OBJECTIVE

To assess the presence, quality, and timeliness of initial staging imaging for rectal cancer patients, and to evaluate demographic factors associated with disparities.

METHODS

We conducted a chart review of consecutive rectal adenocarcinoma cancer registry cases from a single institution for the period from 2015 to 2020. We recorded whether initial staging MRI or endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) was performed, and whether it was performed in or outside the institution. MRI quality was assessed based on compliance to the Society of Abdominal Radiology rectal cancer disease-focused panel protocol recommendations. The times between diagnosis and imaging were calculated. Patients' age, race, ethnicity, sex, body mass index, address, and primary payer were acquired from the electronic medical record. Descriptive analysis, odds ratios, and Student's t tests were used for analysis.

RESULTS

Of 346 patients, 39% were female, and the average age was 59 years. A total of 93 patients (26.8%) had no initial staging MRI or endoscopic ultrasound. Of the 142 MRIs evaluated for image quality, 100 patient exams (72.4%) met the criteria for adequate quality. The mean time interval from diagnosis to imaging was 30.9 days. A lower likelihood of receiving initial local staging was associated with being of Hispanic ethnicity (P < .01), having Medicaid or no insurance (P < .01), and residing in a low-income census block (P < .01). Higher quality of imaging was associated with residence in a census block with high median income (P < 0.01), more recent diagnosis (P < .01), and MRI performed at the institution presented (P < .01).

CONCLUSIONS

Although radiologic workup variability was found across all demographics, sociodemographic factors have an effect on local initial imaging of rectal cancer, emphasizing the need to improve image acquisition for underserved patients and improve quality standardization at low-volume centers.

Barriers and facilitators of colorectal cancer screening among East African men in Minnesota: a qualitative investigation

Objective: This study aimed to explore barriers and facilitators to colorectal cancer (CRC) screening among East African men in Minnesota.Design: Six focus groups were conducted in Minneapolis and St. Paul, MN, USA. Participants were asked to describe individual and structural barriers to CRC screening, and discuss strategies that would address individual and structural barriers to screening. Audio-recorded conversations were transcribed verbatim and translated to English. The transcriptions were analyzed using a thematic analysis. Major themes that emerged on individual barriers were lack of knowledge, fear, and privacy.Results: Themes that emerged on structural barriers were distrust in the medical system, lack of health care coverage, and access to the health care system. Education, client reminders, mass media, increased clarity in communication with the provider and translator, and increased access to health care were frequently mentioned strategies to increase CRC screening in the East African community. Participants expressed favorable views toward the concept of patient navigation.Conclusion: Our findings indicate the need to develop culturally appropriate, multi-faced, intervention programs that are aimed at eliminating personal, cultural, and structural barriers.

Opioid Use Disorder Treatment Linkage at Strategic Touchpoints Using Buprenorphine (OUTLAST-B): Rationale, Design, and Evolution of a Randomized Controlled Trial

Background

Despite the effectiveness and growing availability of treatment for opioid use disorder (OUD) with buprenorphine, many people with OUD do not access treatment services. This article describes the rationale, methodological design, evolution, and progress of an ongoing clinical trial of treatment linkage strategies for people with untreated OUD.

Methods

The study, titled Opioid Use Disorder Treatment Linkage at Strategic Touchpoints using Buprenorphine (OUTLAST-B), uses "strategic touchpoints", initially sexual health clinics and subsequently broadened to other service venues and participant social networks, for recruitment and screening. Adults with untreated OUD (target N = 360) are randomized to one of the three arms: Usual Care (UC, enhanced with overdose education and naloxone distribution), Patient Navigation (PN), or Patient Navigation with an immediate short-term bridge prescription for buprenorphine (PN + BUP). In the PN and PN + BUP arms, the Patient Navigator works with participants for 2 months to facilitate treatment entry and early retention, resolve barriers (e.g., ID cards, transportation), and provide motivational support.

Results

The primary outcome is OUD treatment entry within 30 days of enrollment. Participants are assessed at baseline and followed at 3- and 6-months post-enrollment on measures of healthcare utilization, substance use, and general functioning. Challenges and recruitment adaptations pursuant to the COVID-19 pandemic are discussed.

Conclusions

This study could provide insights on how to reach people with untreated OUD and link them to care through non-traditional routes.

Trial Registration

The study is registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT04991974).

Restructuring lung cancer care to accelerate diagnosis and treatment in patients vulnerable to healthcare disparities using an innovative care model

The diagnosis and treatment of lung cancer is challenged by complex diagnostic pathways and fragmented care that can lead to disparities for vulnerable patients. Our model involved a multi-institutional, multidisciplinary conference to address the complexity of lung cancer care in vulnerable patient populations. The conference was conducted using a process adapted from the problem-solving method entitled FastTrack, pioneered by General Electric. Conference attendees established critical social determinants of health specific to lung cancer and designed a practical care model to accelerate diagnosis and treatment in this population. The resulting care delivery model, the Lung Cancer Strategist Program (LCSP), was led by a lung cancer trained advanced practice provider (APP) to expedite diagnosis, surgical and oncologic consultation, and treatment of a suspicious lung nodule. We compared the timeliness of care, care efficiency, and oncologic outcomes in 100 LCSP patients and 100 routine referral patients at the same thoracic surgery clinic. Patient triage through our integrated care model transitioned initial referral evaluation to a lung cancer trained APP to coordinate multidisciplinary patient-centered care that was highly individualized and significantly reduced the time to diagnosis and treatment among vulnerable patients at high-risk for treatment delay due to healthcare disparities.•To develop the Lung Cancer Strategist Program care model, we used a three-step (Design, Meeting, and Culmination), team-based, problem-solving process entitled FastTrack.•An advantage of FastTrack is its ability to overcome barriers embedded within hierarchal and institutional social systems, empowering those closest to the relevant issue to propose and enact meaningful change.•Under this framework, we engaged a diverse field of experts to assess systemic barriers in lung cancer care and design an innovative care pathway to improve the timeliness and efficiency of lung cancer care in patients at risk for healthcare disparities.

Mi-CARE: Comparing Three Evidence-Based Interventions to Promote Colorectal Cancer Screening among Ethnic Minorities within Three Different Clinical Contexts

Multiple evidence-based interventions (EBIs) have been developed to improve the completion of colorectal cancer (CRC) screening within Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) and other safety net settings in marginalized communities. Little effort has been made, however, to evaluate their relative effectiveness across different clinical contexts and populations. To this end, we tested the relative effectiveness of three EBIs (mailed birthday cards, lay navigation, and provider-delivered education) among a convenience sample of 1252 patients (aged 50-75 years old, who were due for CRC screening and scheduled for a visit at one of three clinics within a network of Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) in the United States. To be eligible for the study, patients had to identify as African American (AA) or Latino American (LA). We compared the effects of the three EBIs on CRC screening completion using logistic regression. Overall, 20% of the study population, an increase from a baseline of 13%, completed CRC screening. Clinical demographics appeared to influence the effectiveness of the EBIs. Mailed birthday reminders appeared to be the most effective within the multi-ethnic clinic (p = 0.03), provider-delivered education within the predominantly LA clinic (p = 0.02), and lay navigation within the predominantly AA clinic (p = 0.03). These findings highlight the importance of understanding clinical context when selecting which evidence-based interventions to deploy.

Medical Care for Newly Arrived Displaced Persons

Medical Care for Displaced PersonsThe United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees reports that more than 100 million people have been forcibly displaced from their homes due to persecution, conflict, violence, and human rights violations. Displacement has profound health impacts. Here, Jain and colleagues review medical care for newly displaced persons.

Psychosocial Risk Profiles and Colorectal Cancer Screening: A Latent Profile Analysis in a Colorectal Cancer Screening Intervention Setting

Health behavior theories have identified predictors of colorectal cancer screening. This study aimed to determine the psychosocial profiles of a predominantly Hispanic population of primarily Mexican origin receiving a colorectal cancer screening intervention and whether a specific combination of psychosocial profiles modified the effect of colorectal cancer screening intervention on colorectal cancer screening uptake.A total of 467 participants aged 50 to 75 years due for colorectal cancer screening received an educational intervention. Latent profile analysis (LPA) was performed on baseline psychosocial constructs to identify the homogenous clustering of individuals with similar psychosocial constructs. In addition, colorectal cancer screening rates and changes in psychosocial scores between the latent groups were compared.Three psychosocial profiles, including a low benefit and high susceptibility group (LBHS), a high benefit and low susceptibility group (HBLS), and a high barrier and high susceptibility group (HBHS), were identified in this study. The HBLS group had the lowest susceptibility, with no improvement in benefits and barriers. This group had the lowest screening rate (80.85%) compared with 88.8% in LBHS and 86.3% in HBHS following the intervention. Finally, the intervention effect size on psychosocial score changes was smaller in HBLS than in other groups.This subgroup analysis suggests that colorectal cancer educational interventions should be tailored to improve the benefits and barriers among individuals with high susceptibility scores.

PREVENTION RELEVANCE

This LPA analysis provides some direction for tailoring colorectal cancer educational interventions to improve the benefits and barriers among individuals with high susceptibility scores in hard-to-screen populations such as our border population.

Effect of Behavioral Interventions on the Uptake of Colonoscopy for Colorectal Cancer Screening: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

INTRODUCTION

Screening decreases colorectal cancer incidence and mortality, but uptake in the United States remains suboptimal. Prior studies have investigated the effect of various interventions on overall colorectal cancer screening and stool-based testing, but the effect on colonoscopy-the predominant screening test in the United States-has not been fully examined. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to assess the effect of behavioral interventions on screening colonoscopy uptake.

METHODS

We searched PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane databases through January 2022 for controlled trials that assessed the effect of behavioral interventions on screening colonoscopy uptake. All titles, abstracts, and articles were screened by at least 2 independent reviewers. Odds ratios were extracted from the original article or calculated from the raw data. The primary outcome was the relative increase in screening colonoscopy completion with any behavioral intervention. We performed random-effects meta-analysis, with subgroup analysis by type of intervention.

RESULTS

A total of 25 studies with 30 behavioral interventions were analyzed. The most common interventions were patient navigation (n = 11) and multicomponent interventions (n = 6). Overall, behavioral interventions increased colonoscopy completion by 54% compared with controls (odds ratio [OR] 1.54, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.26-1.88). Patient navigation (OR 1.78, 95% CI 1.35-2.34) and multicomponent interventions (OR 1.84, 95% CI 1.17-2.89) had the strongest effect on colonoscopy completion among interventions examined in multiple studies. Significant heterogeneity was observed both overall and by intervention type. There was no evidence of publication bias.

DISCUSSION

Behavioral interventions increase screening colonoscopy completion and should be adopted in clinical practice. In particular, patient navigation and multicomponent interventions are the best-studied and most effective interventions.

Role of communication in successful outpatient attendance in a New Zealand hospital: a qualitative study

BACKGROUND

There are significant implications for both patients and providers when patients do not attend outpatient specialist appointments. Nonattendance has an impact on the efficiency of health care, provider resources and patient health outcomes.

AIMS

In this qualitative study we aimed to gather insights on how Dunedin Hospital notifies patients about their appointments, the implications for the hospital and for patients and how the system could be improved.

METHODS

We interviewed 13 hospital staff members and nine patients who volunteered to participate because they had missed appointments as a result of communication problems. Interviews were transcribed and analysed thematically using NVivo software.

RESULTS

Dunedin Hospital relies heavily on posted letters to inform people about their appointments, with some also receiving reminder texts closer to the time of the appointment. Frustration with the current system was a common theme among both patients and staff. Almost all patients had missed an appointment because of a letter not arriving. While most patients found that the text reminders were helpful, most said they were sent too late and did not allow enough time for arrangements to be made for their appointments. Almost all patients experienced treatment delays, which caused distress. Most patients believed a self-booking system would improve the ability to attend their appointments, and most of them wanted to be notified of appointments via email.

CONCLUSIONS

We recommend that a patient-oriented approach to communication should be implemented, and alternative methods of communication should be explored.

Social Risk Screening and Response Equity: Assessment by Race, Ethnicity, and Language in Community Health Centers

INTRODUCTION

Little has previously been reported about the implementation of social risk screening across racial/ethnic/language groups. To address this knowledge gap, the associations between race/ethnicity/language, social risk screening, and patient-reported social risks were examined among adult patients at community health centers.

METHODS

Patient- and encounter-level data from 2016 to 2020 from 651 community health centers in 21 U.S. states were used; data were extracted from a shared Epic electronic health record and analyzed between December 2020 and February 2022. In adjusted logistic regression analyses stratified by language, robust sandwich variance SE estimators were applied with clustering on patient's primary care facility.

RESULTS

Social risk screening occurred at 30% of health centers; 11% of eligible adult patients were screened. Screening and reported needs varied significantly by race/ethnicity/language. Black Hispanic and Black non-Hispanic patients were approximately twice as likely to be screened, and Hispanic White patients were 28% less likely to be screened than non-Hispanic White patients. Hispanic Black patients were 87% less likely to report social risks than non-Hispanic White patients. Among patients who preferred a language other than English or Spanish, Black Hispanic patients were 90% less likely to report social needs than non-Hispanic White patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Social risk screening documentation and patient reports of social risks differed by race/ethnicity/language in community health centers. Although social care initiatives are intended to promote health equity, inequitable screening practices could inadvertently undermine this goal. Future implementation research should explore strategies for equitable screening and related interventions.

Racial and Ethnic Differences in Elective Versus Emergency Surgery for Colorectal Cancer

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate differences in presentation and outcomes of surgery for colorectal cancer.

BACKGROUND

Although racial and socioeconomic disparities in colorectal cancer outcomes are well documented, disparities in access affecting disease presentation are less clear.

METHODS

We conducted a statewide retrospective study of patients who underwent resection for colorectal cancer between January 1, 2015, and April 30, 2021. The primary outcome was undergoing emergency surgery. Secondary outcomes included preoperative evaluation and postoperative outcomes. Covariates of interest included race/ethnicity, social deprivation index, and insurance type.

RESULTS

A total of 4869 patients underwent surgery for colorectal cancer, of whom 1122 (23.0%) underwent emergency surgery. Overall, 28.1% of Black non-Hispanic patients and 22.5% of White non-Hispanic patients underwent emergency surgery. On multivariable logistic regression, Black non-Hispanic race was independently associated with a 5.8 (95% CI, 0.3-11.3) percentage point increased risk of emergency surgery compared with White non-Hispanic race. Patients who underwent emergency surgery were significantly less likely to have preoperative carcinoembryonic antigen measurement, staging for rectal cancer, and wound/ostomy consultation. Patients who underwent emergency surgery had a higher incidence of 30-day mortality (5.5% vs 1.0%, P <0.001), positive surgical margins (11.1% vs 4.9%, P <0.001), complications (29.2% vs 16.0%, P <0.001), readmissions (12.5% vs 9.6%, P =0.005), and reoperations (12.2% vs 8.2%, P <0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Among patients with colorectal cancer, Black non-Hispanic patients were more likely to undergo emergency surgery than White non-Hispanic patients, suggesting they may face barriers to timely screening and evaluation. Undergoing emergency surgery was associated with incomplete oncologic evaluation, increased incidence of postoperative complications including mortality, and increased surgical margin positivity. These results suggest that racial and ethnic differences in the diagnosis and treatment of colorectal cancer impact near-term and long-term outcomes.

Components and effectiveness of patient navigation programmes to increase participation to breast, cervical and colorectal cancer screening: A systematic review

BACKGROUND

Inequalities in cancer incidence and mortality can be partly explained by unequal access to high-quality health services, including cancer screening. Several interventions have been described to increase access to cancer screening, among them patient navigation (PN), a barrier-focused intervention. This systematic review aimed to identify the reported components of PN and to assess the effectiveness of PN to promote breast, cervical and colorectal cancer screening.

METHODS

We searched Embase, PubMed and Web of Science Core Collection databases. The components of PN programmes were identified, including the types of barriers addressed by navigators. The percentage change in screening participation was calculated.

RESULTS

The 44 studies included were mainly on colorectal cancer and were conducted in the USA. All described their goals and community characteristics, and the majority reported the setting (97.7%), monitoring and evaluation (97.7%), navigator background and qualifications (81.4%) and training (79.1%). Supervision was only referred to in 16 studies (36.4%). Programmes addressed mainly barriers at the educational (63.6%) and health system level (61.4%), while only 25.0% reported providing social and emotional support. PN increased cancer screening participation when compared with usual care (0.4% to 250.6% higher) and educational interventions (3.3% to 3558.0% higher).

CONCLUSION

Patient navigation programmes are effective at increasing participation to breast, cervical and colorectal cancer screening. A standardized reporting of the components of PN programmes would allow their replication and a better measure of their impact. Understanding the local context and needs is essential to design a successful PN programme.

A Community-Based Survey of Colorectal Cancer Screening Behaviors in Chinese Immigrants Residing in a Major Metropolitan Area

Background

Colorectal cancer is a common cause of screening preventable death in Chinese immigrants, but colorectal cancer screening rates remain low in this population. This study evaluated factors associated with colorectal cancer screening behaviors in Chinese Americans living in New York City.

Methods

Participants were foreign-born Chinese Americans, aged 50 years or older, who completed internet surveys between November 2020 and May 2021 regarding their colorectal cancer screening behaviors. Data were collected on demographics, health care utilization, participants' levels of health literacy, English proficiency, colorectal cancer perceptions and current colorectal cancer screening behaviors. Bivariate analyses using chi-square or t-tests were performed to examine associations between colorectal cancer screening behaviors and participant characteristics.

Results

103 participants were surveyed with a mean age of 71.3 years. Most participants experienced high rates of socioeconomic disadvantage (i.e., less than a high school education, annual household income <$20,000, limited health literacy, and poor English proficiency). 92% were ever screened, 81% were up-to-date on screening, and 85% expressed intention to screen in the future. Almost all participants had a primary care provider and a language concordant provider. Individuals who intended to screen were more fearful of developing colorectal cancer (3.2 vs 2.8, p=0.02) and perceived a colorectal cancer diagnosis with greater severity (3.0 vs 2.7, p=0.07) than those without intention to screen.

Conclusions

In our sample, Chinese immigrants were adversely impacted by multiple social determinants of health but reported high colorectal cancer screening rates. Community-based outreach is critical to ensuring cancer-screening engagement in medically vulnerable populations.

Assessing Barriers and Facilitators to Lung Cancer Screening: Initial Findings from a Patient Navigation Intervention

Low-dose computed tomography-based lung cancer screening represents a complex clinical undertaking that could require multiple referrals, appointments, and time-intensive procedures. These steps may pose difficulties and raise concerns among patients, particularly minority, under-, and uninsured populations. The authors implemented patient navigation to identify and address these challenges. They conducted a pragmatic randomized controlled trial of telephone-based navigation for lung cancer screening in an integrated, urban safety-net health care system. Following standardized protocols, bilingual (Spanish and English) navigators educated, motivated, and empowered patients to traverse the health system. Navigators made systematic contact with patients, recording standardized call characteristics in a study-specific database. Call type, duration, and content were recorded. Univariable and multivariable multinomial logistic regression was performed to investigate associations between call characteristics and reported barriers. Among 225 patients (mean age 63 years, 46% female, 70% racial/ethnic minority) assigned navigation, a total of 559 barriers to screening were identified during 806 telephone calls. The most common barrier categories were personal (46%), provider (30%), and practical (17%). System (6%) and psychosocial (1%) barriers were described by English-speaking patients, but not by Spanish-speaking patients. Over the course of the lung cancer screening process, provider-related barriers decreased 80% (P = 0.008). The authors conclude that patients undergoing lung cancer screening frequently report personal and health care provider-related barriers to successful participation. Barrier types may differ among patient populations and over the course of the screening process. Further understanding of these concerns may increase screening uptake and adherence. Clinical Trial Registration number: (NCT02758054).

Patient navigation for colorectal cancer screening in deprived areas: the COLONAV cluster randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

The objective of this study was to assess the effectiveness of a Patient Navigation Intervention targeting deprived patients for Colo-Rectal Cancer (CRC) screening participation.

METHODS

A cluster randomized controlled trial was conducted in 5 districts. Peer Lay Patient Navigators were recruited to operate in deprived areas. Eligible participants had to be between 50 and 74 years old, live in these deprived areas and receive an invitation to the nationally organized Colo-Rectal Cancer (CRC) screening during the study period. The theory-driven navigation intervention was deployed for 18 months. A population Health Intervention Research assessment method was used to assess effectiveness and context interaction. The primary criterion was screening participation at 12 months.

RESULTS

Twenty-four thousand two hundred eighty-one individuals were included inside 40 clusters. The increase in participation in the intervention group was estimated at 23%, (ORa = 1.23, CI95% [1.07-1.41], p = 0.003). For the subgroup of individuals who participated, the time delay to participating was reduced by 26% (ORa = 0.74, CI95% [0.57-0.96], p = 0.021). Main factors modulating the effect of the intervention were: closeness of navigator profiles to the targeted population, navigators' abilities to adapt their modus operandi, and facilitating attachment structure.

CONCLUSION

The ColoNav Intervention succeeded in demonstrating its effectiveness, for CRC screening. Patient Navigation should be disseminate with broader health promotion goals in order to achieve equity in health care.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

clinicaltrials.gov NCT02369757 24/02/2015.

Comparing Latino Community Members' and Clinical Staff's Perspectives on Barriers and Facilitators to Colorectal Cancer Screening

Latinos in the United States have low rates of colorectal cancer (CRC) screening even though CRC is the third leading cause of cancer death among Latinos. This qualitative study aimed to understand and compare the perspectives of clinical staff (CS) and Latino community members (LCMs) in an urban Southern California community regarding barriers and facilitators of CRC screening. Through purposive sampling, 39 LCMs (mean age: 59.4 years, 79.5% female) were recruited to participate in one of five focus groups, and 17 CS (mean age: 38.8 years, 64.7% female) were recruited to participate in semi-structured in-depth interviews, along with a demographic survey. Interviews and focus group recordings were transcribed verbatim, translated, and analyzed using direct content analysis. Demographic data were summarized using descriptive statistics. Findings suggest that CS and LCMs have both similar and opposing perspectives with regard to barriers and facilitators of CRC screening. Themes discussed included attitudes towards CRC screening, CRC knowledge, access to resources, commitments and responsibilities, social support, vicarious learning, patient-provider communication, trust, and social relationships. Study findings can be used to guide interventions and policies to improve access to CRC screening among LCMs.

Getting patients back for routine colorectal cancer screening: Randomized controlled trial of a shared decision-making intervention

Thousands of colonoscopies were canceled during the initial surge of the COVID-19 pandemic. As facilities resumed services, some patients were hesitant to reschedule. The purpose of this study was to determine whether a decision aid plus telephone coaching would increase colorectal cancer (CRC) screening and improve patient reports of shared decision making (SDM). A randomized controlled trial assigned adults aged 45-75 without prior history of CRC who had a colonoscopy canceled from March to May 2020 to intervention (n = 400) or usual care control (n = 400) arms. The intervention arm received three-page decision aid and call from decision coach from September 2020 through November 2020. Screening rates were collected at 6 months. A subset (n = 250) in each arm was surveyed 8 weeks after randomization to assess SDM (scores range 0-4, higher scores indicating more SDM), decisional conflict, and screening preference. The sample was on average, 60 years old, 53% female, 74% White, non-Hispanic, and 11% Spanish speaking. More intervention arm patients were screened within 6 months (35% intervention vs 23% control, p < 0.001). The intervention respondents reported higher SDM scores (mean difference 0.7 [0.4, 0.9], p < 0.001) and less decisional conflict than controls (-21% [-35%, -7%], p = 0.003). The majority in both arms preferred screening versus delaying (68% intervention vs. 65% control, p = 0.75). An SDM approach that offered alternatives and incorporated patients' preferences resulted in higher screening rates. Patients who are overdue for CRC screening may benefit from proactive outreach with SDM support.

Assessing the impact of multicomponent interventions on colorectal cancer screening through simulation: What would it take to reach national screening targets in North Carolina?

Healthy People 2020 and the National Colorectal Cancer Roundtable established colorectal cancer (CRC) screening targets of 70.5% and 80%, respectively. While evidence-based interventions (EBIs) have increased CRC screening, the ability to achieve these targets at the population level remains uncertain. We simulated the impact of multicomponent interventions in North Carolina over 5 years to assess the potential for meeting national screening targets. Each intervention scenario is described as a core EBI with additional components indicated by the "+" symbol: patient navigation for screening colonoscopy (PN-for-Col+), mailed fecal immunochemical testing (MailedFIT+), MailedFIT+ targeted to Medicaid enrollees (MailedFIT + forMd), and provider assessment and feedback (PAF+). Each intervention was simulated with and without Medicaid expansion and at different levels of exposure (i.e., reach) for targeted populations. Outcomes included the percent up-to-date overall and by sociodemographic subgroups and number of CRC cases and deaths averted. Each multicomponent intervention was associated with increased CRC screening and averted both CRC cases and deaths; three had the potential to reach screening targets. PN-for-Col + achieved the 70.5% target with 97% reach after 1 year, and the 80% target with 78% reach after 5 years. MailedFIT+ achieved the 70.5% target with 74% reach after 1 year and 5 years. In the Medicaid population, assuming Medicaid expansion, MailedFIT + forMd reached the 70.5% target after 5 years with 97% reach. This study clarifies the potential for states to reach national CRC screening targets using multicomponent EBIs, but decision-makers also should consider tradeoffs in cost, reach, and ability to reduce disparities when selecting interventions.

The Road Less Traveled: Transportation Barriers to Cancer Care Delivery in the Rural Patient Population

Patients with cancer residing in geographically rural areas experience lower rates of preventative screening, more advanced disease at presentation, and higher mortality rates compared with urban populations. Although multiple factors contribute, access to transportation has been proposed as a critical barrier affecting timeliness and quality of health care delivery in rural populations. Patients from geographically rural regions may face a variety of transportation barriers, including lack of public transportation, limited access to private vehicles, and increased travel distance to specialized oncologic care. A search using PubMed was conducted to identify articles pertaining to transportation barriers to cancer care and tested interventions in rural patient populations. Studies demonstrate that transportation barriers are associated with delayed follow-up after abnormal screening test results, decreased access to specialized oncology care, and lower rates of receipt of guideline-concordant treatment. Low clinical trial enrollment and variability in survivorship care are also linked to transportation barriers in rural patient populations. Given the demonstrated impact of transportation access on equitable cancer care delivery, several interventions have been tested. Telehealth visits and outreach clinics appear to reduce patient travel burden and increase access to specialized care, and patient navigation programs are effective in connecting patients with local resources, such as free or subsidized nonemergency medical transportation. To ensure equal access to high-quality cancer care and reduce geographic disparities, the design and implementation of tailored, multilevel interventions to address transportation barriers affecting rural communities is critical.

Hospitalization as an opportunity to engage underserved individuals in shared decision-making for lung cancer screening: results from two randomized pilot trials

PURPOSE

Medicare requires tobacco dependence counseling and shared decision-making (SDM) for lung cancer screening (LCS) reimbursement. We hypothesized that initiating SDM during inpatient tobacco treatment visits would increase LCS among patients with barriers to proactively seeking outpatient preventive care.

METHODS

We collected baseline assessments and performed two pilot randomized trials at our safety-net hospital. Pilot 1 tested feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy of a nurse practitioner initiating SDM for LCS during hospitalization (Inpatient SDM). We collected qualitative data on barriers encountered during Pilot 1. Pilot 2 added a community health worker (CHW) to address barriers to LCS completion (Inpatient SDM + CHW-navigation). For both studies, preliminary efficacy was an intention-to-treat analysis of LCS completion at 3 months between intervention and comparator (furnishing of LCS decision aid only) groups.

RESULTS

Baseline assessments showed that patients preferred in-person LCS discussions versus self-reviewing materials; overall 20% had difficulty understanding written information. In Pilot 1, 4% (2/52) in Inpatient SDM versus 2% (1/48, comparator) completed LCS (p = 0.6), despite 89% (89/100) desiring LCS. Primary care providers noted that competing priorities and patient factors (e.g., social barriers to keeping appointments) prevented the intervention from working as intended. In Pilot 2, 50% (5/10) in Inpatient SDM + CHW-navigation versus 9% (1/11, comparator) completed LCS (p < 0.05). Many patients were ineligible due to recent diagnostic chest CT (Pilot 1: 255/659; Pilot 2: 239/527).

CONCLUSIONS

Inpatient SDM + CHW-navigation shows promise to improve LCS rates among underserved patients who smoke, but feasibility is limited by recent diagnostic chest CT among inpatients. Implementing CHW-navigation in other clinical settings may facilitate LCS for underserved patients.

TRAIL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03276806 (8 September 2017); NCT03793894 (4 January 2019).

Perspectives of Caregivers Experiencing Persistent Food Insecurity at an Academic Primary Care Clinic

OBJECTIVE

Food insecurity (FI) is often transitory and instigated by changes in family circumstances or environmental events. Clinics have developed interventions to address FI, yet families may face persistent FI. Little is known about persistently food insecure families' experiences with clinic-based interventions. The objective of this study was to evaluate the perspectives of caregivers experiencing persistent FI in a clinical setting.

METHODS

We conducted 40 semistructured interviews at one academic primary care clinic between July 2019 and December 2019. The clinic routinely screened families for FI at every visit; families screening positive could meet with a care navigator and receive bags of nonperishable foods. Caregivers who received food bags at ≥3 visits, spoke English or Spanish, and were ≥18 years old were eligible to participate. Interviews were recorded, de-identified, transcribed, and systematically coded using inductive content analysis. A modified constant comparative method was used to iteratively review codes, identify emerging themes, and resolve differences through consensus.

RESULTS

Forty caregivers were interviewed; all were women; 45% were Hispanic/Latinx and 37.5% African American/Black. Three major themes emerged: 1) unmet social and medical needs and the challenges of caregiving complicate FI; 2) social supports help address FI and other social challenges that present barriers to accessing resources; and 3) caregivers provide practical recommendations for addressing persistent FI.

CONCLUSION

Families experiencing persistent FI described important social supports that help address FI and other social challenges that present barriers to accessing resources. Clinic-based resources were welcomed interventions, but their impact may be limited; practical recommendations were made.

Effect of interventions for non-emergent medical transportation: a systematic review and meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION

Transportation is an important social determinant of health. We conducted a systematic review of the associations on health and health care utilization of interventions aimed at reducing barriers to non-emergency transportation and non-medical transportation.

METHODS

We searched three databases and the gray literature through mid-January 2022. Included studies needed to assess an intervention targeted at non-emergency or non-medical transportation barriers, report missed (or kept) visits, health care utilization, costs, or health outcomes. Data extraction was performed in duplicate and included information about study design, results, and risk of bias. Primary outcomes were frequency of missed appointments, health care utilization, costs, and health outcomes. Synthesis was both narrative and meta-analytic using a random effects model.

RESULTS

Twelve studies met inclusion criteria, three randomized trials, one controlled trial, and eight observational studies. All included studies had some element of risk of bias. Populations studied usually had chronic or serious health conditions or were poor. Interventions included van rides, bus or taxi vouchers, ride-sharing services, and others. Meta-analysis of seven studies (three trials, four observational studies) yielded a pooled estimate of missed appointments = 0.63 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.48, 0.83) favoring interventions. Evidence on cost, utilization, and health outcomes were too sparse to support conclusions. Evidence on the effect of non-medical transportation is limited to a single study.

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

Interventions aimed at non-emergency transportation barriers to access health care are associated with fewer missed appointments; the association with costs, utilization or health outcomes is insufficiently studied to reach conclusions. This review was registered in PROSPERO as ID CRD42020201875.

Extending analytic methods for economic evaluation in implementation science

Background

Economic evaluations of the implementation of health-related evidence-based interventions (EBIs) are conducted infrequently and, when performed, often use a limited set of quantitative methods to estimate the cost and effectiveness of EBIs. These studies often underestimate the resources required to implement and sustain EBIs in diverse populations and settings, in part due to inadequate scoping of EBI boundaries and underutilization of methods designed to understand the local context. We call for increased use of diverse methods, especially the integration of quantitative and qualitative approaches, for conducting and better using economic evaluations and related insights across all phases of implementation.

Main body

We describe methodological opportunities by implementation phase to develop more comprehensive and context-specific estimates of implementation costs and downstream impacts of EBI implementation, using the Exploration, Preparation, Implementation, Sustainment (EPIS) framework. We focus specifically on the implementation of complex interventions, which are often multi-level, resource-intensive, multicomponent, heterogeneous across sites and populations, involve many stakeholders and implementation agents, and change over time with respect to costs and outcomes. Using colorectal cancer (CRC) screening EBIs as examples, we outline several approaches to specifying the “boundaries” of EBI implementation and analyzing implementation costs by phase of implementation. We describe how systems mapping and stakeholder engagement methods can be used to clarify EBI implementation costs and guide data collection—particularly important when EBIs are complex. In addition, we discuss the use of simulation modeling with sensitivity/uncertainty analyses within implementation studies for projecting the health and economic impacts of investment in EBIs. Finally, we describe how these results, enhanced by careful data visualization, can inform selection, adoption, adaptation, and sustainment of EBIs.

Conclusion

Health economists and implementation scientists alike should draw from a larger menu of methods for estimating the costs and outcomes associated with complex EBI implementation and employ these methods across the EPIS phases. Our prior experiences using qualitative and systems approaches in addition to traditional quantitative methods provided rich data for informing decision-making about the value of investing in CRC screening EBIs and long-term planning for these health programs. Future work should consider additional opportunities for mixed-method approaches to economic evaluations.

Communicating risk to promote colorectal cancer screening: a multi-method study to test tailored versus targeted message strategies

Colorectal cancer (CRC) screening rates are suboptimal, partly due to poor communication about CRC risk. More effective methods are needed to educate patients, but little research has examined best practices for communicating CRC risk. This multi-method study tests whether tailoring CRC risk information increases screening intentions. Participants (N = 738) were randomized with a 2:2:1 allocation to tailored, targeted, and control message conditions. The primary outcome was intention to screen for CRC (yes/no). Additional variables include perceived message relevance, perceived susceptibility to CRC, and free-text comments evaluating the intervention. A chi-square test determined differences in the proportion of participants who intended to complete CRC screening by condition. A logistic-based path analysis explored mediation. Free-text comments were analyzed using advanced topic modeling analysis. CRC screening intentions were highest in the tailored intervention and significantly greater than control (P = 0.006). The tailored message condition significantly increased message relevance compared with control (P = 0.027) and targeted conditions (P = 0.002). The tailored condition also increased susceptibility (P < 0.001) compared with control, which mediated the relationship between the tailored condition and intention to screen (b = 0.04, SE = 0.02, 95% confidence interval = 0.02, 0.09). The qualitative data reflect similar trends. The theoretical mechanisms and practical implications of tailoring health education materials about CRC risk are discussed.

Decreasing colorectal cancer screening disparities: A culturally tailored patient navigation program for Hispanic patients

BACKGROUND

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the second leading cause of cancer-related death in Hispanic patients. Screening colonoscopy has been shown to reduce the incidence and mortality of CRC. However, utilization among Hispanic patients and other minority groups is low. The objective of this study was to evaluate colonoscopy utilization among Hispanic patients with a culturally tailored patient navigation program (CTPNP) in place.

METHODS

A CTPNP was designed to meet the needs of the authors' Hispanic patient population and their health care system characteristics. A CTPNP protocol was created, and a Spanish-speaking navigator/coordinator was hired. Enrolled patients received a Spanish-language introductory letter, an initial phone call for patient education, and follow-up calls to ensure that all potential barriers to colonoscopy were overcome. Colonoscopy completion (CC), colonoscopy cancellation (CN), and colonoscopy no-show (NS) rates were recorded and compared with historical rates in Rhode Island.

RESULTS

Over a 28-month period, 773 patients were referred to the CTPNP, and 698 (53% female and 47% male) were enrolled in the program. The overall CC rate was 85% (n = 592) with no difference between males and females. The CN rate was 9% (n = 62), and the NS rate was 6% (n = 44). The most common reasons for CN and NS were cost and an inability to contact the patient after referral. Within the CC group, 43% (n = 254) of patients underwent polypectomy, and 1.3% (n = 8) required colectomy. Ninety percent (n = 530) of the CC group reported that they would not have completed colonoscopy without the CTPNP.

CONCLUSIONS

Implementation of a CTPNP is an effective intervention to improve the CC rate and eliminate the historical gender gap in utilization among Hispanic patients.

Patient navigation to promote lung cancer screening in a community health center for people experiencing homelessness: Protocol for a pragmatic randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Lung cancer is a major cause of death among people experiencing homelessness, with mortality rates more than double those in the general population. Lung cancer screening (LCS) with low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) could reduce lung cancer deaths in this population, although the circumstances of homelessness present multiple barriers to LCS LDCT completion. Patient navigation is a promising strategy for overcoming these barriers.

METHODS

The Investigating Navigation to Help Advance Lung Equity (INHALE) Study is a pragmatic randomized controlled trial of patient navigation for LCS among individuals receiving primary care at Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program (BHCHP). Three hundred BHCHP patients who meet Medicare/Medicaid criteria for LCS will be randomized 2:1 to usual care with (n = 200) or without (n = 100) LCS navigation. Following a structured, theory-based protocol, the patient navigator assists with each step in the LCS process, providing lung cancer education, facilitating shared decision-making visits with primary care providers (PCPs), assisting in making and attending LCS LDCT appointments, arranging follow-up when needed, and offering tobacco cessation support for smokers. The primary outcome is receipt of LCS LDCT at 6 months. Using a sequential explanatory mixed methods approach, qualitative interviews with participants and PCPs will aid in interpreting and contextualizing the trial results.

DISCUSSION

This trial will produce the first experimental evidence on patient navigation for cancer screening in a homeless health care setting. Results could inform cancer health equity efforts at the 299 Health Care for the Homeless programs that serve over 900,000 patients annually in the US.

Adaptation of colorectal cancer screening tailored navigation content for American Indian communities and early results using the intervention

BACKGROUND

American Indians (AI) experience major colorectal cancer (CRC) screening disparities with commensurate inequity in CRC mortality and other outcomes. The purpose of this report is to describe the methods and early results of adapting a previously successful intervention for the AI community.

METHODS

The educational content and delivery strategy of the parent intervention were adapted for AIs guided by an adaptation framework and cultural consultations with the community and clinicians. As part of the environmental scanning, we identified the need to substantively revise our data entry, collection, and tracking system and develop a REDCap database for this purpose. In this study, we staggered the implementation of the intervention in each facility to inform the process from one clinic to the next, and assess both the clinical outcomes of the tailored intervention and the implementation processes across two clinic settings, Facilities A and B.

RESULTS

The REDCap database is an indispensable asset, and without it we would not have been able to obtain reliable aggregate screening data while improvements to facility electronic health records are in progress. Approximately 8% (n = 678) of screening-eligible patients have been exposed to the navigator intervention. Of those exposed to the navigator intervention, 37% completed screening.

CONCLUSIONS

With the small numbers of patients exposed so far to the intervention, it would be premature to draw any broad conclusions yet about intervention effects. However, early screening completion rates are substantial advances on existing rates, and we have demonstrated that a tailored navigator intervention for facilitating CRC screening was readily adapted with provider and community input for application to AIs. A REDCap database for tracking of CRC screening by navigators using tablets or laptops on- or offline is easy to use and allows for generation of aggregate, anonymized screening data.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

There was no health intervention meeting the criteria of a clinical trial. The University of Arizona Institutional Review Board granted exemption from obtaining informed consent from patients undergoing CRC screening after administration of the tailored navigation intervention as usual care.

Care in the Community: Opportunities to improve cancer screening uptake for people living with low income

Despite organized provincial cancer screening programs, people living with low income consistently have lower rates of screening in Ontario, Canada than their more socioeconomically advantaged peers. We previously published results of a two-phase, exploratory qualitative study involving both interviews and focus groups whose objective was to integrate knowledge of people living with low income on how to improve primary care strategies aimed at increasing cancer screening uptake. In the current paper, we report previously unpublished findings from that study that identify how taking a community outreach approach in primary care may lead to increased cancer screening uptake among people living with low income. Participants told us that they saw value in a community outreach approach to cancer screening. They recommended specific actionable approaches, in particular, mobile community-based screening and community information sessions, and recommended taking an ethno-specific lens depending on the communities being targeted. Participants expressed a desire for primary care providers to go out into the community to learn more about the whole patient, such as could be achieved with home visits, but they simultaneously believed that this may be challenging in urban settings and in the context of perceived physician shortages. Models of primary care that provide support to an entire local community and provide some of their services directly in that community may have a meaningful impact on cancer screening for socially marginalized groups.

Patient Navigation After Positive Fecal Immunochemical Test Results Increases Diagnostic Colonoscopy and Highlights Multilevel Barriers to Follow-Up

BACKGROUND

The fecal immunochemical test (FIT) is a common colorectal cancer screening modality in the USA but often is not followed by diagnostic colonoscopy.

AIMS

We investigated the efficacy of patient navigation to increase diagnostic colonoscopy after positive FIT results and determined persistent barriers to follow-up despite navigation in a large, academic healthcare system.

METHODS

The study cohort included all health system outpatients with an assigned primary care provider, a positive FIT result between 12/01/2016 and 06/01/2019, and no documentation of colonoscopy after positive FIT. Two non-clinical patient navigators engaged patients and providers to encourage follow-up, offer solutions to barriers, and assist with colonoscopy scheduling. The primary intervention endpoint was completion of colonoscopy within 6 months of navigation. We documented reasons for persistent barriers to colonoscopy despite navigation and determined predictors of successful follow-up after navigation.

RESULTS

There were 119 patients who received intervention. Of these, 37 (31.1%) patients completed colonoscopy at 6 months. In 41/119 (34.5%) cases, the PCP did not recommend colonoscopy, most commonly due to a normal colonoscopy prior to the positive FIT (19, 46.3%). There were 41/119 patients (34.5%) that declined colonoscopy despite the patient navigator and the PCP order. Male sex and younger age were significant predictors of follow-up (aOR = 2.91, 95%CI, 1.18-7.13; aOR = 0.92, 95%CI, 0.87-0.99).

CONCLUSIONS

After implementation of patient navigation, diagnostic colonoscopy was completed for 31.1% of patients with a positive FIT result. However, navigation also highlighted persistent multilevel barriers to follow-up. Future work will develop targeted solutions for these barriers to further increase FIT follow-up rates in our health system.

The Use of Community Health Workers in Community Health Centers

BACKGROUND

Until 2016, community health centers (CHCs) reported community health workers (CHWs) as part of their overall enabling services workforce, making analyses of CHW use over time infeasible in the annual Uniform Data System (UDS).

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to examine changes in the CHW workforce among CHCs from 2016 to 2018 and factors associated with the use of CHWs.

RESEARCH DESIGN, SUBJECTS, MEASURES

The two-part model estimated separate effects for the probability of using any CHW and extent of CHW full-time equivalents (FTEs) reported in those CHCs, using a total of 4102 CHC-year observations from 2016 to 2018. To estimate the extent to which increases in CHW workforce are attributable to real growth or rather are a consequence of a change in reporting category, we also conducted a difference-in-differences analysis to compare non-CHW enabling services FTEs between CHCs with and without CHWs before (2013-2015) and after (2016-2018) the reporting change in 2016.

RESULTS

The rate of CHCs that employed CHWs rose from 20.04% in 2016 to 28.34% in 2018, while average FTEs stayed relatively flat (3.32 FTEs). Patient visit volume (larger CHCs) and grant funding (less reliant on federal but more reliant on private funding) were significant factors associated with CHW use. However, we found that a substantial portion of this growth was attributable to a change in UDS reporting categories.

CONCLUSION

While we do not address the reasons why CHCs have been slow to use CHWs, our results point to substantial financial barriers associated with CHCs' expanding the use of CHWs.

Community Health Workers as Healthcare Navigators in Primary Care Chronic Disease Management: a Systematic Review

BACKGROUND

This review was carried out to synthesize the evidence of the effectiveness of community health worker (CHW) navigation in primary care chronic disease management.

METHODS

We searched the English language literature between January 1990 and March 2020 in Medline, Embase, Emcare, PubMed, Psych Info, CINAHL, Scopus, and Medline Epub ahead of print. Data extraction, quality rating, and assessment of the reporting of interventions were performed by two reviewers independently and the findings were synthesized narratively.

RESULTS

Twenty-nine articles met the inclusion criteria. All but two were carried out in the USA and half were randomized controlled trials. Six of the 29 studies were of strong methodological quality while 12 were moderate and 11 weak. Overall, CHW navigation interventions were effective in increasing adherence to cancer screening and improving use of primary care for chronic disease management. There was insufficient evidence that they improved clinical outcomes or risk factors and reduced use of secondary or tertiary care or that they were cost-effective. However, criteria for recruitment, duration, and mode of training and supervision arrangements varied greatly between studies.

DISCUSSION

CHW navigation interventions improved aspects of chronic disease management. However, there is insufficient evidence of the impact on patient experience, clinical outcomes, or cost-effectiveness of the interventions. Future research should focus on standardizing organizational components of the CHW navigation interventions and evaluating their cost-effectiveness.

PROTOCOL REGISTRATION

The review protocol was published in PROSPERO (CRD42020153921).

Economic Evaluation of Web- versus Telephone-based Interventions to Simultaneously Increase Colorectal and Breast Cancer Screening Among Women

Screening for colorectal and breast cancer is considered cost effective, but limited evidence exists on cost-effectiveness of screening promotion interventions that simultaneously target both cancers. Increasing Colorectal and Breast Cancer Screening (Project COBRA), a randomized controlled trial conducted in the community, examined the cost-effectiveness of an innovative tailored web-based intervention compared with tailored telephone counseling and usual care. Screening status at 6 months was obtained by participant surveys plus medical record reviews. Cost was prospectively measured from the patient and provider perspectives using time logs and project invoices. Relative efficiency of the interventions was quantified by the incremental cost-effectiveness ratios. Nonparametric bootstrapping and net benefit regression analysis were used to assess statistical uncertainty of the results. The average cost per participant to implement the Phone counseling, Web-based, and Web + Phone counseling interventions were $277, $314, and $337, respectively. Comparing Phone counseling with usual care resulted in an additional cost of $300 (95% confidence interval [CI]: $283-$320) per cancer screening test and $421 (95% CI: $400-$441) per additional person screened in the target population. Phone counseling alone was more cost-effective than the Web + Phone intervention. Web-based intervention alone was more costly but less effective than the Phone counseling. When simultaneously promoting screening for both colorectal and breast cancer the Web-based intervention was less cost-effective compared with Phone and Web + Phone strategies. The results suggest that targeting multiple cancer screening may improve the cost-effectiveness of cancer screening interventions. PREVENTION RELEVANCE: This study informs researchers, decision makers, healthcare providers, and payers about the improved cost-effectiveness of targeting multiple cancer screenings for cancer early detection programs.

Systematic Review of Interventions to Increase Stool Blood Colorectal Cancer Screening in African Americans

African Americans experience colorectal cancer (CRC) related disparities compared to other racial groups in the United States. African Americans are frequently diagnosed with CRC at a later stage, screening is underutilized, and mortality rates are highest in this group. This systematic review focused on intervention studies using stool blood CRC screening among African Americans in primary care and community settings. Given wide accessibility, low cost, and ease of dissemination of stool-based CRC screening tests, this review aims to determine effective interventions to improve participation rates. This systematic review included intervention studies published between January 1, 2000 and March 16, 2019. After reviewing an initial search of 650 studies, 11 studies were eventually included in this review. The included studies were studies conducted in community and clinical settings, using both inreach and outreach strategies to increase CRC screening. For each study, an unadjusted odds ratio (OR) for the CRC screening intervention compared to the control arm was calculated based on the data in each study to report effectiveness. The eleven studies together recruited a total of 3334 participants. The five studies using two-arm experimental designs ranged in effectiveness with ORs ranging from 1.1 to 13.0 using interventions such as mailed reminders, patient navigation, and tailored educational materials. Effective strategies to increase stool blood testing included mailed stool blood tests augmented by patient navigation, tailored educational materials, and follow-up calls or mailings to increase trust in the patient-provider relationship. More studies are needed on stool blood testing interventions to determine effectiveness in this population.

Facilitating communication for critically ill patients and their family members: Study protocol for two randomized trials implemented in the U.S. and France

BACKGROUND

Critically-ill patients and their families suffer a high burden of psychological symptoms due, in part, to many transitions among clinicians and settings during and after critical illness, resulting in fragmented care. Communication facilitators may help.

DESIGN AND INTERVENTION

We are conducting two cluster-randomized trials, one in the U.S. and one in France, with the goal of evaluating a nurse facilitator trained to support, model, and teach communication strategies enabling patients and families to secure care consistent with patients' goals, beginning in ICU and continuing for 3 months.

PARTICIPANTS

We will randomize 376 critically-ill patients in the US and 400 in France to intervention or usual care. Eligible patients have a risk of hospital mortality of greater than15% or a chronic illness with a median survival of approximately 2 years or less.

OUTCOMES

We assess effectiveness with patient- and family-centered outcomes, including symptoms of depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress, as well as assessments of goal-concordant care, at 1-, 3-, and 6-months post-randomization. The primary outcome is family symptoms of depression over 6 months. We also evaluate whether the intervention improves value by reducing utilization while improving outcomes. Finally, we use mixed methods to explore implementation factors associated with implementation outcomes (acceptability, fidelity, acceptability, penetration) to inform dissemination. Conducting the trial in U.S. and France will provide insights into differences and similarities between countries.

CONCLUSIONS

We describe the design of two randomized trials of a communication facilitator for improving outcomes for critically ill patients and their families in two countries.