Related Experiment Videos
Colonoscopy Screening among Native Hawaiians at Queen's Medical Center between August 2011 and January 2013
Jodie M Kaalekahi1, Krupa R Gandhi1, John J Chen1
1The Queen's Medical Center, Honolulu, HI (JMK, SKK).
Insights
Colorectal cancer screening rates among Native Hawaiians were 13%. Younger patients and those with private insurance utilized the Direct Referral Colonoscopy program more, highlighting a need to reduce health disparities.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Gastroenterology
- Health Disparities
Background:
- Colorectal cancer (CRC) screening is crucial for early detection and prevention.
- Native Hawaiians experience significant health disparities, including lower cancer screening rates.
- Understanding referral program differences can improve CRC screening access.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare characteristics of Native Hawaiian patients in Direct vs. Traditional Referral Colonoscopy programs.
- To identify potential barriers to colonoscopy screening in the Native Hawaiian population.
- To inform interventions aimed at increasing CRC screening rates.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective chart review of 358 Native Hawaiian patients undergoing colonoscopy.
- Data collected from August 2011 to January 2013 at Queen's Medical Center.
- Comparison of patient demographics and referral program utilization.
Main Results:
- Overall colonoscopy screening rate among Native Hawaiians was 13%.
- Younger patients and those with private insurance were more likely to use the Direct Referral program.
- Differences in characteristics between referral programs were identified.
Conclusions:
- Direct Referral Colonoscopy may improve access for specific Native Hawaiian subgroups.
- Targeted interventions are needed to reduce disparities in CRC screening.
- Further research should explore barriers and facilitators for colonoscopy screening in this population.
Abstract:
A retrospective chart review in the Endoscopy Department at Queen's Medical Center identified 358 Native Hawaiian patients who had completed a colonoscopy screening procedure between August 2011 and January 2013, through either the Direct Referral Colonoscopy program or its Traditional Referral program. The differences in the characteristics of Native Hawaiian patients were summarized and compared between the two referral programs to identify potential barriers for future interventions and increase colorectal cancer screening. The combined colonoscopy screening rate among Native Hawaiians was 13%. Younger patients and those with private insurance were found to be undergoing colonoscopy screening through the Direct Referral program. The findings of this study underscore the need to reduce disparities in colonoscopy screening among Native Hawaiians.