Evaluation of a Tailored Patient Navigation Program for Improving Multitarget Stool DNA Test Adherence

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Preventive Medicine
• Health Services Research

Background:

• Multitarget stool DNA (mt-sDNA) tests are a noninvasive option for colorectal cancer screening.
• Test adherence remains a challenge, potentially limiting the impact of mt-sDNA screening.
• Tailored patient navigation (TPN) has shown success in improving adherence for other cancer screening methods.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of TPN in improving mt-sDNA test completion rates.
• To assess whether TPN can reduce the rate of samples that could not be processed (SCNBP).

Main Methods:

• A prospective study was conducted in a large, urban, academic primary care clinic serving a medically vulnerable population.
• Patients receiving mt-sDNA orders in 2022 (pre-intervention) and 2023 (intervention) were included.
• During the 12-month intervention period, a patient navigator provided TPN to support test completion.

Main Results:

• TPN was associated with a significant increase in 90-day mt-sDNA completion rates (51% vs. 39%).
• TPN also led to a significant reduction in SCNBP results (4% vs. 5%).
• These improvements were observed despite existing manufacturer navigation services.

Conclusions:

• Tailored patient navigation is an effective strategy for enhancing colorectal cancer screening uptake via mt-sDNA testing.
• TPN improves both test completion and sample quality, making it a valuable tool in preventive oncology.
• The findings suggest TPN should be considered for mt-sDNA screening programs, particularly in vulnerable populations.