Project DIS-IMPACT: Drug information in English and Spanish to improve patient preparation before colonoscopy

Abstract Objective To create culturally appropriate colonoscopy education services and handouts for the Hispanic population undergoing a colonoscopy procedure to ensure correct bowel preparation. Setting Project DIS-IMPACT was conducted at a federally qualified, nonprofit community health center along the United States–Mexico border. Practice description Patients identified in the study included those who were at least 50 years of age and had not received a colonoscopy between July 1, 2012, and February 28, 2013. Participants included uninsured Hispanics, able to speak English or Spanish, registered with the clinic, and referred by a provider working at the health center. Practice innovation The process of evaluating and developing colonoscopy screening education included creating a standing order, developing medication education handouts in both English and Spanish, and documenting areas of improvement at monthly pharmacy staff meetings. Main outcome measures Outcomes of the program included a descriptive statistics analysis of the served population and culturally appropriate counseling recommendations used in the medication (polyethylene glycol electrolyte solution) education handouts. Results A total of 143 participants received colonoscopy, including 49 men and 94 women. As the classes were conducted, the patient information handouts were adapted accordingly based on culturally appropriate recommendations from participants and providers. Conclusion Pharmacists played a unique role in providing culturally appropriate precolonoscopy education material to assist in successful colonoscopy preparation.