Successful strategies for implementing biopsychosocial screening

• DOI: 10.1002/pon.1930
• Publication Date: 2011-04-01T10:01:31Z
• Authors: Matthew Loscalzo; Karen Lynn Clark; Jimmie Holland
• Keywords: Biopsychosocial model; Staffing; Cancer screening; Health administration; Action plan

Abstract Objective : This commentary integrates successful screening implementation strategies applied in four institutions the United States and accumulated knowledge from international leaders about how to engage key professionals administration partnering create a culture of screening. Methods As clinical practice, it is first necessary know patient's story, potential resources what motivates them coordinated meaningful action. Introducing comprehensive program shares similarities with care but also requires additional insights an understanding make available. Specific behaviors that are tailored values particular professions institution described increase likelihood uptake. Once understand value not before, plan put into place. Results Since 1990s our programs have been successfully implemented settings: three NCI Designated Comprehensive Cancer Centers one community hospital. It estimated more than 15,000 cancer outpatients screened for distress cancer‐related problems. These demonstrated biopsychosocial can be integrated busy outpatient clinics as part standard care. Conclusions Screening involves intervention impacts patients, systems, staffing levels psychosocial providers. Provision scarce resources, active engagement will only occur if stakeholders clear sense benefits them. Implementing creates change takes time, engagement, patience persistence. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.