Prospective randomized pilot study of a novel patient-centered pathology report for colorectal polyps

US patients have increased access to their medical records, yet the information is not always understandable. To improve patient understanding, we tested a patient-centered pathology report (PCPR) containing results for recent colon cancer screening or surveillance colonoscopy.

A pilot randomized trial assessed the impact of addition of the PCPR to a standard pathology report on knowledge accuracy, decisional self-efficacy and control, and therapeutic alliance.

55 participants were enrolled; 20 participants in the intervention group and 24 controls completed follow-up. There was no significant difference in polyp knowledge between groups at baseline or 30-days, with similar confidence in understanding their diagnoses, decisional self-efficacy, and therapeutic alliance. Most participants receiving a PCPR felt that it helped them understand their diagnosis better and should always be provided with the standard pathology report.

Although patient attitudes toward the PCPR were positive, receiving it did not significantly improve knowledge accuracy or measures of self-efficacy. Further iterations should be explored to communicate key knowledge about colorectal polyp results.

A stakeholder-driven approach to PCPR development facilitated construction of a personalized document that has potential to increase patient's understanding for their results and needed follow-up.