A large study in Federally Qualified Health Centers tested a two-part plan to get more patients screened for colorectal cancer. Patients who were due for screening got a mailed fecal immunochemical test (FIT) kit. If the test was positive, they received patient navigation to help them complete a follow-up colonoscopy.
The main result was a big jump in screening. About 18% more patients in the intervention group completed screening compared to the control group. This benefit was seen across all racial and ethnic groups studied.
Hispanic patients saw a 16.7% increase in screening. Non-Hispanic Black patients had a 13.9% increase. Non-Hispanic White patients had a 20.7% increase. The study found no significant difference in the benefit between these groups.
The approach is practical and can be used in many community clinics. It helps address gaps in cancer screening for minoritized populations. The study did not report on safety issues or side effects.