Throughout the span of the last 8 years, community partnerships have created the building blocks for the success of our program. Initially the shift in lung cancer screening recommendations were new to providers, therefore education was necessary along with growing relationships to increase trust in the community. Relying on our clinical partners to guide us to familiar environments where patients currently seek care to increase trust and screenings.  

The increase in staffing and decisions on how and when to hire were directly correlated with the needs of the patients, from orders and scheduling to navigation and resources. The initial conversations with the scheduling team were crucial. In-depth discussions of the screening process built trust and confidence for the patient to attend the lung screening.  

With more nursing staff communication, collaboration and advocacy improved. Best practice was established with improved reporting to providers by sharing results and images in a timely manner along with closing the loop by following up directly with the patient. With the hiring of a provider, follow-up orders and other referrals could be placed, along with tobacco cessation orders.  

Tobacco Cessation has always been a key focus for the MLS program. The team has adapted from the failure and success of previous patients and their feedback. Modified coaching techniques and intervals of follow up calls have enhanced patient success. One on one consult was introduced with the provider to come up with an individualized plan of care. Nursing staff maintain connection with patients every 3 weeks to provide refills, evaluate progress, provide encouragement and adjust as needed. All encounters are documented in the EMR.  

Patients feel confident to call the team if they cannot reach their provider office, have questions about family members, or need a shoulder to cry on.  

Learning Objectives: Growing community partnerships allows for increased trust. Determining staffing needs to support patient needs. Increasing tobacco cessation to improve follow up success.