Date of Publication
2024
Project Team
Jean E. Pelski, PhD, APRN, NNP-BC
Abstract
Background: Breast cancer remains a predominant cause of cancer-related death in women globally and is notably prevalent among women in Vermont, where it ranks as one of the top diagnosed cancers. The significance of early detection and treatment has potential to reduce both the morbidity and mortality associated with the disease. To this end, the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) have issued guidelines for breast cancer screening, aiming to improve patient outcomes. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has set an objective for 74% of women to adhere to the breast cancer screening protocols recommended by organizations such as USPSTF and ACOG. However, adherence rates among women in Vermont are below this target. In response, this Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) quality improvement initiative sought to elevate breast cancer screening rates within a primary care clinic in Vermont.
Methods: To achieve this, an educational toolkit, underpinned by the Health Belief Model (HBM) theoretical framework, was disseminated to qualifying individuals. The clinic's electronic health record (EHR) system was utilized for retrospective chart reviews to monitor screening rates. Participants who were overdue for screening four weeks post-receipt of the educational materials were sent a reminder.
Results: The intervention, which involved the distribution of the Breast Care & Breast Cancer Screening educational toolkit and subsequent reminders to 68 participants, resulted in an 11.8% increase in breast cancer screening rates, alongside a clinic-wide increase of 1% in screening mammograms.
Conclusions: This outcome suggests that a comprehensive strategy encompassing patient education, engagement, and follow-up can effectively enhance mammogram screening rates in a Vermont-based primary care setting.
Document Type
Dissertation/Thesis
Recommended Citation
Ciampa Zwicky, Kayla M. DNPc, RN, "Increasing Breast Cancer Screening Rates in Primary Care" (2024). College of Nursing and Health Sciences Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Project Publications. 151.
https://scholarworks.uvm.edu/cnhsdnp/151