Implementing a computer-assisted telephone interview (CATI) system to increase colorectal cancer screening: a process evaluation

Mary Jo White, University of Massachusetts Medical School
Jennifer Rider Stark, University of Massachusetts Medical School
Roger Luckmann, University of Massachusetts Medical School
Milagros C. Rosal, University of Massachusetts Medical School
Lynn Clemow
Mary E. Costanza, University of Massachusetts Medical School

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: Computer-assisted telephone interviewing (CATI) systems used by telephone counselors (TCs) may be efficient mechanisms to counsel patients on cancer and recommended preventive screening tests in order to extend a primary care provider's reach to his/her patients. The implementation process of such a system for promoting colorectal (CRC) cancer screening using a computer-assisted telephone interview (CATI) system is reported in this paper.

METHODS: The process evaluation assessed three components of the intervention: message production, program implementation and audience reception.

RESULTS: Of 1181 potentially eligible patients, 1025 (87%) patients were reached by the TCs and 725 of those patients (71%) were eligible to receive counseling. Five hundred eighty-two (80%) patients agreed to counseling.

CONCLUSIONS: It is feasible to design and use CATI systems for prevention counseling of patients in primary care practices.

PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS: CATI systems have the potential of being used as a referral service by primary care providers and health care organizations for patient education.