Examining The Utilization Of Preventative Colorectal Cancer Screening Among Americans Since The Passage Of The Affordable Care Act From The Providers’ Point Of View
Date of Award
Spring 2025
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Doctor of Healthcare Administration (DHA)
Committee Chair
Rachel Tate
Committee Member
Jennifer Harris
Committee Member
Jesse Florang
Abstract
This dissertation investigates the impact of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) on the utilization of preventive colorectal cancer (CRC) screening among Americans under 65, focusing on healthcare providers' perspectives. The ACA, a significant healthcare reform, aimed to expand access to preventive services, including CRC screenings, vital for early detection and improved outcomes. This study employed quantitative analysis with a component of qualitative analysis utilizing a modified version of the Survey of Physician Attitudes Regarding the Care of Cancer Survivors (SPARCCS) to gather quantitative and qualitative data from healthcare providers in Maryland, Virginia, and the District of Columbia. The quantitative analysis assessed changes in CRC screening rates, patient compliance, and the effects of ACA-related policy changes, while the qualitative analysis explored providers' insights on barriers to screening, the role of patient education, and the overall effectiveness of the ACA in improving preventive care. Findings indicate a substantial increase in CRC screening utilization and frequency since the ACA's passage, with healthcare providers perceiving significant improvements in patient access and compliance. However, the study also highlights ongoing challenges, including financial barriers and enhanced patient education. These insights are critical for informing future healthcare policies and practices to reduce disparities in CRC screening and improve overall preventive care outcomes. This research contributes to the growing body of literature on healthcare reform and preventive care, offering valuable perspectives from those directly involved in delivering care. The findings underscore the importance of continued efforts to address disparities and optimize the benefits of healthcare policies like the ACA.
Recommended Citation
Bolarinwa, Motolani, "Examining The Utilization Of Preventative Colorectal Cancer Screening Among Americans Since The Passage Of The Affordable Care Act From The Providers’ Point Of View" (2025). All Doctoral Student Dissertations. 218.
https://fuse.franklin.edu/docpub/218
