Patient navigation activities in a large community -based colorectal cancer screening program.

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Health Disparities
• Cancer Prevention

Background:

• Colorectal cancer (CRC) screening is recommended for average-risk adults aged 45-75, yet screening rates remain suboptimal.
• Patient navigation is an evidence-based strategy proven effective in increasing cancer screening uptake.
• This study focuses on a culturally tailored, community-based CRC screening program serving an unscreened, underserved, and predominantly Hispanic population.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the patient navigation activities implemented in a successful community-based CRC screening program.
• To characterize the types, frequency, and duration of navigation contacts provided.
• To analyze factors associated with the number of navigation activities required and barriers to screening.

Main Methods:

• A sample of 200 participants (100 high-risk, 100 positive FIT test) from a larger cohort of 690 were analyzed.
• Data collected included participant-identified barriers and details of navigation contacts.
• Regression models examined associations between sociodemographic/health factors and navigation needs or reported barriers.

Main Results:

• The study sample (n=200) averaged 56.3 years old, predominantly female (74.0%) and Hispanic (96.5%).
• Participants received an average of 9.66 navigation contacts, with navigators spending approximately 54.89 minutes per participant.
• Key navigation activities included appointment scheduling, reminder calls, and results communication.

Conclusions:

• The findings offer detailed insights into the specific navigation activities and time investment required for CRC screening and colonoscopy completion.
• This information is valuable for refining community-based screening programs targeting underserved and underscreened populations.
• The study underscores the effectiveness of culturally tailored patient navigation in overcoming barriers to CRC screening.