Universal Screening for Familial Colorectal Cancer Syndromes at Seattle Cancer Care Alliance: Qualitative Study of Providers involved in Implementation and Patients Experience with First Wave of Testing

Abstract

Introduction: In 2013 the Seattle Cancer Care Alliance (SCCA) implemented universal screening procedures for people who present with colorectal cancer in order to help identify high risk families for which Lynch Syndrome testing would be effective. This qualitative thesis reports on patients experience with the first round of universal screening procedures at the SCCA including their thoughts about colorectal cancer. Provider interviews about the implementation process are used as key informant interviews to explore barriers and facilitators to implementation. Methods: Qualitative interview procedures were utilized for both patient and provider interviews. Patient interviews were coded using Nvivo software to extract themes and analyze data. Results: Providers indicate that implementation of universal screening procedures for Lynch Syndrome are successful. Despite this, the majority of patients did not remember the purpose of the testing or its implications for the health of themselves or their families. Patients also report openness about sharing health information among their families citing varying degrees of support and communication. Conclusion: Public health interventions can target patients and families to ensure uptake of knowledge and sharing of health information among family members for familial diseases like colorectal cancer.