Identifying Priorities and Strategies for Improving Colorectal Cancer Screening in Tribal Clinics

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Health Disparities
• Cancer Screening

Background:

• Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a leading cause of cancer death in the US, with higher rates in some Oklahoma American Indian (AI) populations.
• The AI CRC Screening Consortium aims to reduce CRC screening disparities among AI individuals aged 50-75.
• This study focuses on current CRC screening practices and stakeholder experiences within two Oklahoma AI healthcare systems.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct an environmental scan of colorectal cancer screening practices.
• To identify multi-stakeholder experiences and perspectives on CRC screening.
• To inform the development of evidence-based interventions to increase CRC screening delivery and uptake in AI populations.

Main Methods:

• A mixed-methods environmental scan was conducted across five clinical sites.
• Data collection involved individual interviews and group discussions with multiple stakeholders.
• The study was implemented within two distinct AI healthcare delivery systems in Oklahoma.

Main Results:

• Sixty-two individuals participated in interviews, providing insights into current practices and needs.
• Findings highlight individual and system-level opportunities for improving CRC screening.
• Thematic areas included current practices, stakeholder needs and recommendations, and CRC screening priorities.

Conclusions:

• Environmental scan data revealed significant opportunities for interventions to enhance CRC screening.
• The findings are critical for understanding the readiness of AI healthcare systems for evidence-based intervention implementation.
• System-level improvements are needed to address CRC screening disparities in AI populations.