Dissemination of an evidence-based intervention manual to improve managed care mammography rates

After collaborating with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to develop an evidence-based mammography intervention manual, the dissemination of the manual in a managed care setting was assessed. Using qualitative methods (in-depth interviews), factors were examined that motivated use of the manual by the quality improvement units of eight Prudential HealthCare health plans. Seven of the plans implemented more intensive interventions after having received the manual than in the previous year. Factors that facilitated use of the manual and implementation of recommendations included: internal motivation, support of senior level management, adequate resources (time, personnel, and funds) to support interventions, and the organization and content of the manual itself.