The role of general practitioners in the follow-up of positive results from the Australian National Bowel Cancer Screening Program - a scoping review.

Abstract

Background There are several studies investigating the effectiveness and participation rates of the Australian National Bowel Cancer Screening Program (NBCSP), but there is limited literature pertaining to the role and processes that general practitioners (GPs) follow after a positive immunochemical faecal occult blood test (iFOBT) result. The aim of this paper is to review evidence examining GP involvement in the follow-up of positive iFOBT results from the NBCSP and identify knowledge gaps. Methods A scoping review was undertaken involving the search of the Cochrane Library, Informit, PubMed and Scopus electronic databases. Inclusion criteria were the follow-up processes and practices by GPs subsequent to notification of a positive iFOBT from this program. Searches were limited to English and publication was from January 2006 to January 2024. A combination of keywords was used and adapted to each search engines' requirements: general practitioner AND bowel cancer AND screening AND Australia. Results Relevant sources of evidence were reviewed, and 24 records met inclusion criteria. Results are represented across three themes: (i) screening process and GP follow-up; (ii) follow-up rates and facilitation; and (iii) recommendations for improved follow-up. Conclusion This scoping review provides insight into the central role GPs play in the implementation of the NBCSP and highlights the lack of information regarding steps taken and systems employed in general practice to manage positive iFOBTs.