Do we DARE? Improving digital ano-rectal examination in men who have sex with men living with HIV: A quality improvement initiative

Abstract

Men who have sex with men (MSM) living with HIV are at increased risk of anal cancer and annual screening via digital ano-rectal examination (DARE) is recommended. Baseline audit (Cycle 1) was undertaken of the medical records of MSM living with HIV aged ≥50 years (n = 85) from 1 January 2017 to 31 December 2018, in line with guidelines at the time. Data collection included whether DARE was discussed and offered, and whether DARE was accepted or declined. We provided staff training and altered clinic proformas aiming to increase DARE. Audit Cycle 2 (Cycle 2) was undertaken of eligible MSM (n = 86) who attended between 1 January 2019 to 31 December 2020. DARE frequency increased from 4.7% in Cycle 1 to 41.8% in Cycle 2 (P < 0.001) and discussion and offer of DARE increased from 8% to 64% in Cycle 2 (P < 0.001).