Pilot Study Using Rapid Cycle Testing to Overcome Barriers to Colorectal Cancer Screening at Community Health Centers

What this Trial Is About

This research aims to improve colorectal cancer screening by identifying and addressing barriers in community health centers CHCs with diverse populations. The study focuses on people aged 45 and older, examining baseline screening needs and disparities. Researchers will analyze electronic health records and use focus groups with CHC staff to understand screening challenges and perceptions about screening age changes and strategies. The study also seeks to develop and test ways to improve screening at patient, provider, and system levels using rapid cycle testing. The study involves several steps first, analyzing data from health records and population management platforms to understand screening patterns and resource needs. Second, conducting focus groups with various CHC staff to identify barriers and attitudes toward screening and new strategies like using technology and medical assistant involvement. Third, developing implementation strategies based on these findings and testing them individually at each CHC using a design where each center acts as its own control. Strategies may include patient text messages, staff training, and workflow changes. Participants, who are CHC staff involved in colorectal cancer screening, will engage in focus groups and implementation testing lasting about four months. Researchers will collect data on how acceptable, feasible, and appropriate the strategies are through surveys and observation. They will also measure changes in screening rates. The study uses detailed data management and analysis methods to track progress and outcomes, aiming to tailor and optimize screening interventions in these health centers.

Eliminating Barriers to Colorectal Cancer Screening Using Rapid Cycle Testing: A Pilot Study