Objective:

To examine the effectiveness of a theory of behavior change (TOBC)-informed SMS intervention on colorectal cancer (CRC) screening completion among overdue patients in federally qualified health centers (FQHCs), particularly focusing on economically and socially vulnerable populations.

Key Findings:

• The study found that SMS reminders, particularly those informed by behavioral theory, significantly increased CRC screening rates among participants, with TOBC-informed messages leading to a XX% increase in completion rates compared to the control group.

Interpretation:

The integration of behavioral theory into SMS reminders can effectively enhance CRC screening uptake in underserved populations, addressing disparities in screening rates by providing tailored motivational support.

Limitations:

• The study was limited to two FQHC networks, which may affect the generalizability of the findings. Additionally, potential confounding factors were not controlled for, and reliance on self-reported data for screening completion may introduce bias.

Conclusion:

TOBC-informed SMS interventions can be a valuable tool in improving CRC screening rates among underserved populations, suggesting a need for broader implementation in FQHCs to address health disparities.