Patient Perceptions on the Follow-Up of Abnormal Cancer Screening Test Results

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Public Health
• Patient Experience Research

Background:

• Timely follow-up after abnormal cancer screening is crucial but often not achieved.
• Patient experiences with follow-up diagnostic workups are not well understood.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess patient experiences and perceptions of the diagnostic workup process following abnormal breast, cervical, or colorectal cancer screening results.

Main Methods:

• A survey was administered to patients who had abnormal screening results.
• Data collected included ease of scheduling, perceived barriers, provider trust, and satisfaction with care.
• Patients were recruited from 44 practices across three primary care networks.

Main Results:

• 241 patients completed the survey; 51% did not complete recommended follow-up.
• Fear of cancer was a common worry (63.1%), but not associated with follow-up completion.
• 17% of patients did not believe follow-up was necessary, and were less likely to complete it.

Conclusions:

• Patients reported deficiencies in managing recommended follow-up for abnormal cancer screenings.
• Improving communication about the necessity of follow-up and addressing cancer-related fears may enhance timely adherence.