4238.0: Tuesday, October 23, 2001 - 2:40 PM

Abstract #28415

Evidence-based case management for abnormal cancer screening follow-up adherence

Betsy Vourlekis, PhD1, Kathleen Ell, DSW2, Jan Nissly, MSW2, Deborah Padgett, PhD3, and Diana Pineda, MSW4. (1) Social Work Department, University of Maryland Baltimore County, 1000 Hilltop Circle, Baltimore, MD 21250, (410) 455-2137, vourleki@umbc.edu, (2) School of Social Work, University of Southern California, MRF Building - MC0411, Los Angeles, CA 90089-0411, (3) New York University, (4) LA County+USC Medical Center

A social work-developed and -implemented case management program (Project SAFe) is designed to improve adherence to diagnostic follow-up among targeted low-income women with abnormal mammogram or Pap screens. Research shows that less than optimal or non-adherence to abnormal screening follow-up can range as high as 60% among ethnic minority, poor, and older women. Project SAFe's case management model has been pilot-tested in two clinical sites with nearly 800 women. An MSW/Peer Counselor team provides services, with the MSW providing Peer Counselor supervision as well as clinical services to the women with serious psychosocial needs. The SAFe program derives from 4 evidence-based components: 1) evidence of need, providing the rationale for the target group selected for case management services; 2) structured assessment tools for identification of individual risk factors and assignment to service level; 3) evidence-based intervention components derived from clinical efficacy trials; and 4) patient and program outcomes, by which to judge results of the program.

Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the presentation, participants will be able to: 1) Identify generic components of evidence-based social work practice; 2) Describe sources of information to guide construction of evidence-based models; 3) Apply strategies from Project SAFe to other populations and problems.

Keywords: Access to Health Care, Case Management

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: CDC; LA Co.+USC Medical Center; Mt. Sinai Medical Center
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.

The 129th Annual Meeting of APHA