Background Despite unanimous recommendations from numerous specialty societies on regular colorectal cancer screening, a substantial proportion of eligible adults are non-adherent with screening. The current study investigated whether research associates (RAs) in the emergency department (ED) can adequately assess patients’ adherence with colorectal cancer screening recommendations, outlined by the US Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF), and provide referrals to individuals who are found to be non-adherent. Methods RAs at seven heterogeneous hospitals in the USA queried non-emergent adult patients and visitors between the ages of 50 and 75. After obtaining verbal consent, the participant’s adherence with USPSTF guidelines for colorectal cancer screening was assessed. Participants found due for screening were provided with referrals to obtain these recommended screenings. Results A total of 8258 participants were surveyed on their colorectal cancer screening status, with RAs identifying 2063 participants who were not adherent with USPSTF guidelines for colorectal cancer screening and 67 for whom adherence could not be determined (total 27%). Conclusions Our study demonstrates that RAs can identify a large volume of eligible adults who would benefit from colorectal cancer screening across a variety of emergency department settings.

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