Process Evaluation of Recruitment for a Cancer Screening Trial in Primary Care

Aimee S. James, Christine M. Daley, Kimberly Engelman, K. Allen Greiner, Edward Ellerbeck

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

3 Scopus citations

Abstract

Many cancer screening studies are conducted in primary care settings, yet few systematically analyze recruitment challenges found at these sites. During a randomized trial promoting colorectal cancer screening, we implemented a process evaluation of recruitment. Recruiters maintained logs that registered the numbers of patients entering the clinic, approached by recruiters, declining to participate, and reasons for nonapproach and nonparticipation. One half of age-eligible patients were approached (n = 1,489), and half of those who met basic eligibility requirements agreed to engage further (n = 527). A small proportion of patients (n = 98) completed the 15-min assessment before their appointment. Major reasons for nonapproach included previous approach, patients called to the exam room, and appearing ill. The major reason for nonparticipation was “not interested”; a few patients did not want to share contact information. Some participants exited the assessment midway because of further ineligibility or time limitations. Best-practice recommendations for recruitment in primary care are discussed.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)696-703
Number of pages8
JournalHealth promotion practice
Volume12
Issue number5
DOIs
StatePublished - Sep 2011

Keywords

  • cancer screening
  • colorectal cancer
  • primary care research
  • process evaluation
  • recruitment

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