"CUIDARAS": A Nominal and Personalized Health Care Model. Effectiveness of a Massive Screening for Colorectal Cancer Detection at Community level

Abstract

Health systems provides care only to those people who spontaneous demand for attention; excluding those who dont perceive illness or are not aware enough to consult. Alternative healthcare models based on the nominal-personalized care like "University Center for Integrated Care of Referred Health Care" (CUIDARAS) may have better results. In order to demonstrate benefits of this model, it was performed an experience based in colorectal cancer (CRC) detection and care that focused the entire population of the town. Methods: It is an intervention study for early detection of CRC. A survey and a physical examination were performed in each adult from "CH" town. Two visits were made. Blood in stool test (BIST) was self-collected, analyzed and results delivered with appointment for a programmed video-colonoscopy (VCC) when test was positive. Results: people enrolled (n546) had 59.9+/-6.4 yrs. Adherence was 93.8% of the target population; 99.2% performed BIST; while 95.3% a positive BIST had access to VCC and treatment. Overall cost of the experience (stool test, VCC, biopsy, local treatment) was 7685 USD, while costs associated to an advanced CRC classic treatment was USD 9577/patient (USD 26098 if treatment included bevacizumab). Conclusion: The present study based on preventive actions like blood in stool test, applied as a screening to all inhabitants in town, had 93.8% of adherence and high level of CRC early detection. A health model based on personalized care (CUIDARAS), achieved more effective results in terms health care and disease prevention, with a favorable benefit/cost ratio compared with classical health care provide by current system. Key words: Model of care; colorectal cancer; CUIDARAS; personalized care.