Feasibility of Using Patient Navigation to Improve Identification of Inherited Colorectal Cancer (CRC) Syndromes

Abstract

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a major health concern in the United States (US), with a significant percentage attributed to inherited syndromes like Lynch Syndrome (LS). Despite current clinical guidelines recommending genetic testing for CRC patients many eligible patients are not accessing these services. To address this gap, we aimed to describe the feasibility of implementing patient navigation for hereditary CRC syndromes across a range of health care settings. Our qualitative study involved interviews with healthcare professional across various roles and settings in the US. Participants were purposively sampled and interviewed about current genetic services about current genetic service delivery methods, perceived barriers, and facilitators to implementing a patient navigation program within their health care organization. We identified several barriers to the feasibility of the patient navigation program, including limited funding, staffing challenges, inadequate health information technology, and difficulties gaining administrative buy-in. Despite these barriers, participants suggested potential strategies for overcoming them, such as cross training staff and seeking external funding. However, patient navigation may not align with the rapidly evolving models of genetic services delivery. In conclusion, while the patient navigation program does address perceived barriers to genetic service uptake, its feasibility is limited by resource constraints and evolving services delivery models. Future efforts should prioritize creating standardized guidelines for hereditary cancer prevention to guide quality improvement initiatives.