Summary: This study aimed to estimate how associations between adults’ perceptions of specific domains of patient-provider communication (PPC) quality and their likelihood of receiving cancer screenings differed by race and ethnicity. Authors analyzed 2011–2015 Medical Expenditure Panel Survey (MEPS) data. Samples included 7,337 women ages 50–74 (breast), 13,276 women ages 21–65 (cervical), and 9792 adults ages ≥50 years (colorectal). To examine individual domains of PPC quality (independent variables), adults reported how often providers: listened; showed respect; spent enough time; explained things; gave specific instructions; and demonstrated health literate practices (gave clear instructions and asked them to “teach-back” how they will follow instructions). Dependent variables were breast, cervical, and colorectal cancer screenings. 

Findings: Hispanic and non-Hispanic Black adults who reported their providers always demonstrated PPC quality had higher odds of receiving colorectal cancer screenings compared to those whose providers did not. Adults’ perceptions of whether or not their provider gave them specific instructions increased their odds of receiving breast and colorectal cancer screenings. Non-Hispanic Asian women who reported their health care providers demonstrated “teach-back” had higher odds of receiving cervical cancer screenings. Efforts to improve cancer screenings should focus on training providers to demonstrate health literacy practices to improve cancer screenings.

This study cites the California Health Interview Survey (CHIS).

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• Journal Article: The Influence of Patient-Provider Communication on Cancer Screenings Differs Among Racial and Ethnic Groups