Improving Colorectal Cancer Screening via Mailed Fecal Immunochemical Testing in a Veterans Affairs Health System

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Gastroenterology
• Health Services Research

Background:

• Colorectal cancer screening rates declined at the Veterans Affairs Connecticut Healthcare System (VACHS) during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Fecal immunochemical testing (FIT) is a preferred colorectal cancer screening method recommended by the US Multi-Society Task Force.
• The VACHS initiated a mailed FIT kit program to address decreased screening rates.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the VACHS patient-centered, team-based mailed FIT program.
• To evaluate the impact of the mailed FIT program on screening utilization and completion.

Main Methods:

• Implementation of a proactive, population-based colorectal cancer screening program utilizing mailed FIT kits.
• Delivery of FIT kits to patients outside of traditional clinic visits.
• Patient-aligned care team (PACT) model integration.

Main Results:

• Substantial increases in FIT kit utilization and completion rates were observed post-program implementation.
• Significant improvements in overall colorectal cancer screening rates at VACHS.
• Successful expansion of screening reach through a non-visit-based approach.

Conclusions:

• A proactive, mailed FIT kit program can effectively increase colorectal cancer screening rates.
• The VACHS model demonstrates a successful strategy for improving cancer screening adherence in a large healthcare system.
• Population-based outreach via mailed FIT kits enhances screening accessibility and uptake.