Reducing Unnecessary Mammography in Women Aged 75 and Older A Study of Provider and Patient Strategies in a Diverse Healthcare System

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are studying a new approach to reduce unnecessary screening mammograms in women aged 75 and older. This trial focuses on decreasing overuse of mammography, which may cause more harm than benefit in older women due to factors like shorter life expectancy and risks from follow-up procedures. The study aims to test a multilevel strategy involving patients, providers, and healthcare organizations to better align mammography use with current guidelines and patient needs. The study compares two groups one receiving enhanced usual care with organizational support such as provider education and consensus-building task forces, and another receiving this plus additional provider and patient interventions. Providers in the intervention group receive educational newsletters, and patients receive a brochure encouraging discussions with their providers about the appropriateness of continuing mammograms. Organizational components apply to all participants across selected clinics. Participants will be monitored for 18 months to assess screening mammography overuse, provider ordering behavior, and mammography screening discussions. Data will be collected through scheduled primary care visits and healthcare records. The study involves a cluster randomized controlled design at the provider level and includes diverse older women. Safety and study outcomes will be tracked throughout the trial period.

A Multi-Level Strategy for De-implementing Mammography Overuse Among Older Women