Prospective randomized pilot study of a novel patient-centered pathology report for colorectal polyps

Objective: US patients have increased access to their medical records, yet the information is not always understandable. To improve patient understanding, we tested a patient-centered pathology report (PCPR) containing results for recent colon cancer screening or surveillance colonoscopy. Methods: A pilot randomized trial assessed the impact of addition of the PCPR to a standard pathology report on knowledge accuracy, decisional self-efficacy and control, and therapeutic alliance. Results: 55 participants were enrolled; 20 participants in the intervention group and 24 controls completed follow-up. There was no significant difference in polyp knowledge between groups at baseline or 30-days, with similar confidence in understanding their diagnoses, decisional self-efficacy, and therapeutic alliance. Most participants receiving a PCPR felt that it helped them understand their diagnosis better and should always be provided with the standard pathology report. Conclusion: Although patient attitudes toward the PCPR were positive, receiving it did not significantly improve knowledge accuracy or measures of self-efficacy. Further iterations should be explored to communicate key knowledge about colorectal polyp results. Innovation: A stakeholder-driven approach to PCPR development facilitated construction of a personalized document that has potential to increase patient's understanding for their results and needed follow-up.