ASPO Abstracts
A national survey of primary care physicians: perceptions and practices of low-dose CT lung cancer screening
Category: Early Detection & Risk Prediction, Behavioral Science & Health Communication
Conference Year: 2018
Abstract Body:
Background: Soon after the National Lung Screening Trial, organizations began to endorse annual low-dose computed tomography (LCDT) screening for lung cancer in high-risk patients. Concerns about the risks versus benefits of screening, as well as the logistics of properly identifying and referring eligible patients for screening, remained among physicians. This study aimed to examine primary care physicians’ knowledge, attitudes, referral practices, and associated barriers regarding LDCT screening. Methods: We performed a weighted, nationally representative survey of primary care physicians between September 2016 and April 2017. Physicians received up to 3 mailings and 1 follow-up email invitation, and received varying incentives to complete the survey. Overall, 293 physicians completed the survey, for a response rate of 13%. Descriptive statistics were used to characterize the participants and their responses. Results: Over half of the respondents correctly reported that the US Preventive Services Task Force recommends LDCT screening for high-risk patients. Screening recommendations for patients not meeting high-risk criteria varied. Although 75% agreed that the benefits of LDCT screening outweigh the risks, fewer agreed that there is substantial evidence that screening reduces mortality (50%). The most commonly reported barriers to ordering screening included prior authorization requirements, lack of insurance coverage, coverage denials, and transportation and other financial challenges for the patient. Conclusions: Given the impact of physician recommendations on cancer screening utilization, further education, clinical practice and policy changes are needed to engage more patients in screening discussions and ultimately, increase referrals for LDCT screening among high-risk patients.
Keywords: Lung cancer screening, Physician, Survey