Commonly asked questions for lung cancer screening

Introduction. Lung cancer screening (LCS) can reduce lung cancer
mortality; however, poor understanding of results may impact patient
experience and follow-up. We sought to determine whether an informational
handout accompanying LCS results can improve patient-reported outcomes and
adherence to follow-up. Study Design. This was a prospective alternating
intervention pilot trial of a handout to accompany LCS results delivery.
Setting/Participants. Patients undergoing LCS in a multisite program over
a 6-month period received a mailing containing either: 1) a standardized
form letter of LCS results (control) or 2) the LCS results letter and the
handout (intervention). Intervention. A two-sided informational handout on
commonly asked questions after LCS was created through iterative
mixed-methods evaluation with both LCS patients and providers. Outcome
Measures. The primary outcomes of 1)patient understanding of LCS results,
2)correct identification of next steps in screening, and 3)patient
distress were measured through survey. Adherence to recommended follow-up
after LCS was determined through chart review. Outcomes were compared
between the intervention and control group using generalized estimating
equations. Results. 389 patients were eligible and enrolled with survey
responses from 230 participants (59% response rate). We found no
differences in understanding of results, identification of next steps in
follow-up or distress but did find higher levels of knowledge and
understanding on questions assessing individual components of LCS in the
intervention group. Follow-up adherence was overall similar between the
two arms, though was higher in the intervention group among those with
positive findings (p=0.007). Conclusions. There were no differences in
self-reported outcomes between the groups or overall follow-up adherence.
Those receiving the intervention did report greater understanding and
knowledge of key LCS components, and those with positive results had a
higher rate of follow-up. This may represent a feasible component of a
multi-level intervention to address knowledge and follow-up for LCS.