Influence of patient-provider communication on colorectal cancer screening.
BACKGROUND
Screening reduces incidence and mortality from colorectal cancer (CRC). Despite improved access, screening is suboptimal and disparate among minority groups. Quality of patient-provider communication may impact CRC screening.


OBJECTIVE
We examined the relationship between patient-provider communication and socioeconomic variables on the receipt of CRC screening using data from the Medical Expenditure Panel Survey.


METHODS
All persons age 50 years or older (N = 8488).


METHODS
Dependent measures were receipt of CRC screening, fecal occult blood testing, and colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy. Independent variables included demographic characteristics, patient language, and patient-provider communication measures from the Consumer Assessment of Health Plan survey.


RESULTS
Patients who felt they had sufficient time with their healthcare provider were more likely to be screened for CRC. Receiving adequate explanation of healthcare needs from provider was a significant predictor of fecal occult blood testing screening. In addition, persons with less than a high school education, the uninsured, or those with low income were associated with reduced likelihood of receiving CRC screening. Asians and Hispanics had a significantly reduced likelihood of receiving screening in comparison with whites; however, after adjusting for language, no significant differences for race or ethnicity were observed.


CONCLUSIONS
Adequate time with a healthcare provider and receiving sufficient explanation of the healthcare processes by providers may improve screening rates. Patient-provider communication may be improved by addressing language needs of non-English speaking patients. Overall improved communication may increase CRC screening rates in underserved populations.
Carcaise-Edinboro
Patricia
P
Massey Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia 23298, USA. pedinbor@cvcu.edu
Bradley
Cathy J
CJ
D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D015179:Colorectal Neoplasms / Q000175:diagnosis*; D005260:Female; D054625:Healthcare Disparities; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008403:Mass Screening / Q000379:methods / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D008875:Middle Aged; D010342:Patient Acceptance of Health Care; D010565:Persuasive Communication; D010817:Physician-Patient Relations; D014481:United States