Enhancing Patient Education for Low-Health Literacy Populations

In FY’17 Iowa's Colorectal Cancer (CRC) Program developed three patient education videos about the need for individuals (ages 50-75) to get screened for colorectal cancer. These videos were specifically developed for individuals with low levels of health literacy. Initial content was created using the Health Belief Model as a theoretical foundation. Video content was pre-tested via eight focus groups at the end of FY’17. The videos are now being pilot tested in three federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) before full implementation in early FY'19. Patients watch just one of the three videos based on their current level of health literacy. Health literacy levels are assessed via two screening questions. After watching the appropriate video, patients are asked two knowledge questions, a question on how much they “like” the video, and one question about their intention to get screened. Demographic questions are also included. Initial interviews with clinic staff responsible indicate initial implementation has gone smoothly and that most patients within the target age range are willing to watch the videos. The proposed presentation will report the full results of the pilot test including the results of a second round of semi-structured interviews with clinic staff on barriers and facilitators to implementation, the overall number of patients that refused to engage with videos, and the results of the post-tests of each of the three videos. Relevant relationships between knowledge and behavioral intention, and liking and behavioral intention will be reported. Lessons learned and recommendations for future implementation will also be discussed.