Ballarat women not adequately protected against cervical cancer
The latest VCCR statistical report for 2008 shows that the Grampians region Pap screening rate has fallen to 56.3%, down from 58.3% in 2006-7. What can we do?
PapScreen’s message to GPs in our division is to remind female patients to have regular two-yearly Pap tests, as only 54.6 per cent of women in the Division have had a Pap test in the last two years.1
This places our division well below the state’s two-yearly cervical screening average of 62.3 per cent. Many women residing in our division are not adequately protecting themselves against cervical cancer.
Recalls and reminders are crucial
Reminders from GPs are vitally important, as approximately 80 per cent of Pap tests taken in Victoria are by GPs2, and data shows almost 70 per cent of women rely on prompts from their doctor or reminder letters from their health service.3
Provide accurate information to women
Women might not consider themselves eligible for Pap screening. Women might believe they no longer require Pap testing if they are no longer having sex or currently have no partner.
It is important to remind eligible women who have received the HPV vaccine to continue to have Pap screening. Providing accurate information is important.
Consider a practice nurse Pap test provider
Nurses can play a key role in providing cervical screening, particularly in rural Victoria and with older and under-screened women. Women can be reluctant to undergo Pap screening with their usual doctor.4
Contact us to ask about possible funding opportunities to extend clinical hours to provide cervical screening outreach in rural areas.
BDDGP has also produced a business plan related to PNs providing Pap testing.
Contact me for information and resources at jom@bddgp.org.au.
References
For more information about cervical cancer prevention, or to order any of PapScreen’s resources (these include brochures and information sheets for women, GP cards and posters for waiting rooms) visit papscreen.org.au or call the Cancer Council Helpline on 13 11 20.
1. Victorian Cervical Cytology Register Statistical Report 2008
2. Australian Institute of Health and Wellbeing 2004
3. Cancer Issues Population Survey 2007: PapScreen Victoria component.
4. PapScreen Victoria Final Report 2000-2005
