Patient Messaging for Colorectal Cancer Screening

(CRC PROACTIVE Trial)

This trial aims to improve patient compliance with overdue colorectal cancer (CRC) screenings. Colorectal cancer poses a significant health concern, and many individuals remain behind on their screenings despite having insurance coverage. The trial tests whether sending text message reminders (post-visit patient messaging) after doctor visits encourages patients to complete their screenings. Ideal candidates for this trial are those with a scheduled primary care visit who have not yet completed their recommended CRC screening. As an unphased trial, this study provides patients the opportunity to contribute to innovative strategies that could enhance healthcare practices.

Research has shown that text message reminders after doctor visits are safe. Studies have found that these messages increase the completion rate of colorectal cancer (CRC) screenings. For instance, one study showed that 58.9% of people who received text reminders completed their screenings within 21 days.

Researchers are excited about using post-visit patient messaging for colorectal cancer screening because it leverages behavioral nudges to increase screening rates. Unlike traditional methods that rely on healthcare providers to remind patients in person or through mailed reminders, this approach uses text messages sent directly to patients after their clinic visits. This method is convenient and timely, potentially increasing patient engagement and adherence to screening recommendations. By integrating technology into patient communication, this technique aims to improve early detection rates and overall cancer outcomes without the need for additional clinic visits or interventions.

Research has shown that text message reminders can significantly increase colorectal cancer (CRC) screening rates. One study found that 58.9% of people who received text messages completed their screening within 21 days, compared to 49.2% of those who received a phone call. Another study reported that overall screening rates rose to 28% with text message reminders, compared to 24.06% without them. Text messages also improved at-home test completion rates by 6.6%. In this trial, some clinics will use post-visit text message reminders as an active intervention to promote timely CRC screenings, while others will adhere to the standard of care without additional messaging. These findings suggest that post-visit text messages effectively encourage timely CRC screenings.¹²³⁴⁶