CARE_16LeadingCare for Focus Patients
Run a targeted cancer screening improvement initiative
Summary
Design and deliver a short campaign to increase screening uptake (e.g. bowel, breast, cervical) among underrepresented groups.
Supporting information
Cancer screening uptake shows stark inequalities, with lower participation among deprived communities, ethnically minoritised communities, and other marginalised groups. Targeted initiatives that address specific barriers can significantly improve early detection and survival rates.
Approaches to implementation:
- Analyse screening data in your Focus Patients, including by deprivation, ethnicity, and other equity markers
- Co-design interventions with communities with low uptake
- Address practical barriers including appointment times, transport, and childcare
- Provide culturally appropriate information addressing specific concerns
- Train staff to have sensitive conversations about screening
- Use text reminders in multiple languages with clear call-to-action
- Partner with community organisations to promote screening
- Evaluate impact and share learning across the system
Key benefits: Reduces inequalities in cancer outcomes through improved early detection among groups currently underserved by screening programmes.
Resources
Links open on other organisations' websites.