Increasing Effective Primary Care Screenings in the U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Health Community Clinic

Background: In 2019, 1.8 million new cancer cases occurred, and 500,000 cancer deaths were expected in the United States, costing $21 billion. Regular primary care screenings have correlated with early cancer detection, treatment, health promotion, and reduced costs. Objectives: The aim was to increase effective primary care screenings in adults in St. Thomas U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Health Community Clinic to 75% within 8 weeks. Methods: This quality improvement initiative used four Plan-Do-Study-Act cycles over 8 weeks. Two core interventions, each with four tests of change, were implemented. Interventions: Core interventions included screening utilizing a checklist for body mass index, depression, and colorectal, lung, breast, cervical, uterine, and prostate cancer and engagement utilizing a checklist for correlated screening-related education, interventions, shared decision-making, and referral. Results: Primary care screenings increased from 55% to 96%, and patient engagement increased from 6% to 82%. Effective primary care screenings increased to 89%, exceeding the aim. Conclusions: This project improved primary care screening and engagement and effectively applied patient-centered care. Achievements were made through standardized screening and engagement. Implications for Nursing: This quality improvement project may be spread to other clinics to improve patient health outcomes.