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Is Colorectal Cancer Screening Penetration an Adequate Quality Measure?

Etzioni DA, Yano EM, Rubenstein LV, Lee ML, Ko CY, Brook RH, Parkerton PH, Soban L, Asch SM. Is Colorectal Cancer Screening Penetration an Adequate Quality Measure? Paper presented at: VA QUERI National Meeting; 2003 Dec 10; Washington, DC.

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Abstract:

Objectives: : As evidence mounts for effectiveness, an increasing proportion of the US population undergoes colorectal cancer screening. However, relatively little is known about rates of follow-up after abnormal results from initial screening tests. This study examines patterns of colorectal cancer screening and follow-up within the nation's largest integrated health care system, the Veterans Health Administration (VA).Methods/Approach: We obtained information about patients who received colorectal cancer screening in the VA from an existing quality improvement program and from the VA's electronic medical record. Linking these data, we analyzed receipt of screening and follow-up testing after a positive fecal occult blood test (FOBT).Results/Findings: A total of 39,870 patients met criteria for colorectal cancer screening; of these 61% were screened. Screening was more likely in patients 70-80 yo than in those younger or older. Female gender (RR 0.92 [0.90-0.95]), Blacks (RR 0.92 [0.89 - 0.96]), lower income, and infrequent primary care visits were associated with lower likelihood of screening. Of those patients with a positive FOBT (n = 313), 59% received a follow-up barium enema or colonoscopy. Patient-level factors did not predict receipt of a follow-up test.Implications: The VA rates for colorectal cancer screening are significantly higher than the national average. However, 41% of patients with positive FOBTs failed to receive follow-up testing. Efforts to measure the quality of colorectal cancer screening programs should focus on the entire diagnostic process.





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