Factors influencing healthcare practitioners' decision to offer (or not) the choice of self-collection cervical screening in general practice in Victoria, Australia.

Abstract

Background and objectives: In July 2022, a policy change was enacted in the National Cervical Screening Program (NCSP) to allow all women and people with a cervix (hereafter people) the choice of a self-collected sample. This study aimed to understand healthcare practitioners' decisions, and factors related to, the provision (or not) of this change.

Method: Semi-structured interviews (n=28) were conducted between February and July 2023 with general practitioners, nurses and practice managers. The COM-B model of behaviour change framework informed the analysis.

Results: Although most (n=22) interviewees reported that they, or healthcare practitioners at their practice, were providing a choice of self-collection to all, a minority (n=6) reported that either they (n=4) or their practice (n=2) were not. Factors that informed the selective provision of self-collection are reported.

Discussion: For self-collection to facilitate improved equity in the NCSP, strategies are needed to reassure healthcare practitioners that self-collection is an appropriate screening modality, and ensure people are aware of their screening choices.