Location
Philadelphia, PA
Start Date
17-4-2026 1:30 PM
End Date
17-4-2026 2:30 PM
Description
INTRODUCTION:
Lankenau Medical Center launched the Medical Student Health Advocates (MSA) Program in 2012 to address the impact of socioeconomic status and social determinants on health outcomes. Data shows that publicly insured patients are generally more disadvantaged in these areas compared to commercially insured patients. The Colorectal Cancer Screening Initiative (CCSI), a partnership between MSAs and the Department of Health Equity’s Community Health Worker (CHW) team, aims to improve colorectal cancer (CRC) screening rates among Medicaid and dual Medicare/Medicaid patients, narrowing the gap between commercially insured and publicly insured patient populations.
METHODS:
Through weekly calls, CHWs and MSAs provide patients with reminders, preparation guidance, and answers to questions regarding their upcoming colonoscopy appointments. CHWs also arrange chaperoned transportation, review medication holds, and confirm health clearances with patients. During the initial call, CHWs conduct a Social Determinants of Health (SDoH) screening to identify barriers and connect interested patients to resources for food, transportation, utilities, insurance, housing, primary care, prescriptions, and financial aid. Weekly follow-up and post-procedural calls ensure continuity of care.
RESULTS:
Since implementation of the CCSI, the rate of screening colonoscopies among Medicaid and dual Medicare/Medicaid has risen from 48% to over 70%, significantly improving preventive care for underserved populations. Data show gains across demographic groups. Future plans include subgroup analysis, program expansion, addressing common causes of cancellations and no-shows, and optimizing processes for filling cancelled slots to reduce wait times.
CONCLUSION:
This initiative demonstrates the value of patient advocacy and the critical role of non-physician team members like CHWs in supporting health maintenance. As a medical student and Health Equity Intern, I have gained insight into how these collaborations enhance patient outcomes, as completed CRC screening is associated with a 30-60% decrease in CRC incidence and mortality.
Embargo Period
6-4-2026
Included in
Medical Student Advocate–Community Health Worker Collaboration to Improve Colorectal Cancer Screening Rates
Philadelphia, PA
INTRODUCTION:
Lankenau Medical Center launched the Medical Student Health Advocates (MSA) Program in 2012 to address the impact of socioeconomic status and social determinants on health outcomes. Data shows that publicly insured patients are generally more disadvantaged in these areas compared to commercially insured patients. The Colorectal Cancer Screening Initiative (CCSI), a partnership between MSAs and the Department of Health Equity’s Community Health Worker (CHW) team, aims to improve colorectal cancer (CRC) screening rates among Medicaid and dual Medicare/Medicaid patients, narrowing the gap between commercially insured and publicly insured patient populations.
METHODS:
Through weekly calls, CHWs and MSAs provide patients with reminders, preparation guidance, and answers to questions regarding their upcoming colonoscopy appointments. CHWs also arrange chaperoned transportation, review medication holds, and confirm health clearances with patients. During the initial call, CHWs conduct a Social Determinants of Health (SDoH) screening to identify barriers and connect interested patients to resources for food, transportation, utilities, insurance, housing, primary care, prescriptions, and financial aid. Weekly follow-up and post-procedural calls ensure continuity of care.
RESULTS:
Since implementation of the CCSI, the rate of screening colonoscopies among Medicaid and dual Medicare/Medicaid has risen from 48% to over 70%, significantly improving preventive care for underserved populations. Data show gains across demographic groups. Future plans include subgroup analysis, program expansion, addressing common causes of cancellations and no-shows, and optimizing processes for filling cancelled slots to reduce wait times.
CONCLUSION:
This initiative demonstrates the value of patient advocacy and the critical role of non-physician team members like CHWs in supporting health maintenance. As a medical student and Health Equity Intern, I have gained insight into how these collaborations enhance patient outcomes, as completed CRC screening is associated with a 30-60% decrease in CRC incidence and mortality.