Increasing Use of Skin Cancer Screening Tools in Primary Care

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this DNP quality improvement project was to increase primary care provider knowledge, increase the likelihood of skin cancer screening including the use of the Self-Assessment of Melanoma Risk Score (SAMScore) tool, and likelihood of earlier dermatology referral practices after their completion of a brief skin cancer screening education program. Background: Skin cancer is the most common cause of cancer in the United States, with melanoma considered the deadliest form. Approximately 76,380 Americans will be newly diagnosed with melanoma annually, and 10,000 individuals will die from melanoma. Current clinical guidelines utilize the visual skin examination to assess skin lesions. Methods: This project utilized a pre- and post-test design to evaluate whether an educational module was effective in increasing provider knowledge. Provider knowledge was assessed using knowledge-based multiple-choice questions. Current skin cancer screening practices and current dermatology referral practices of the participants was also assessed. Providers of interest include Physicians, Physician Assistants, and Nurse Practitioners working in a private primary care clinic. An email invited providers to participate in this DNP project. Results: Data collection took place over a one-week period. All five providers participated in the educational intervention, and responded to both the pre- and post-test. After completion of the educational intervention, the five participants (N=5, 100%) answered all five multiple-choice knowledge-based questions correctly, demonstrating increased provider knowledge. Provider intent to refer patients to dermatology for consultation increased, as well as provider intent to assess patients’ sun protection methods. Conclusions: Findings suggest there were educational gaps in skin cancer screening knowledge in this setting. The 100% participation rate for this DNP quality improvement project at this clinical practice reflects all of the PCPs’ willingness to increase their skin cancer and screening knowledge. Further, these results demonstrate their consideration of the positive impact of incorporating a patient self-assessment that may necessitate additional interventions into routine care. DNP quality improvement projects assist in the development of strategies to increase best practices. The implementation of education interventions for skin cancer screening may lead to improved patient outcomes.