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More support needed for GPs in HPV screening: Study
GPs strongly support HPV self-collection, but many are hampered by knowledge gaps on extended genotyping, according to a new survey.
GPs need support to develop greater confidence in HPV extended genotyping, a critical advancement in cervical screening.
A new national survey has highlighted gaps in awareness and understanding among GPs of HPV extended genotyping, a development in screening that can strengthen Australia’s fight against cervical cancer.
Further, one in 10 GPs are still not offering HPV self-collection tests to patients, believing them to not be as accurate as clinician-collected samples, despite evidence to the contrary.
However, the findings were from a small sample size with just 75 GPs participating in the survey, leading to calls for further data to be collected and additional resources for GPs about potential issues around different strains.
The survey shows a gap in awareness and understanding of HPV extended genotyping and its ability to enhance patient care, according to women’s health expert and former RACGP Chair, Dr Lara Roeske.
‘Extended genotyping enables clinicians to identify and monitor individual high-risk HPV types, offering more nuanced guidance for follow-up and treatment decisions,’ she said.
‘However, the survey findings show that many GPs are not confident in interpreting these results or explaining their significance to patients.’
HPV extended genotyping is a critical advancement in cervical screening that could help further reduce Australia’s cervical cancer burden.
It provides more detailed information about high-risk HPV serotypes beyond HPV16 and HPV18, increasing the potential for more precise risk stratification and management of patients with HPV infections.
While interest in extended genotyping is growing, many GPs report limited exposure and support to engage with it confidently.
Of the 75 GPs who participated in the survey:
- 82% reported being only somewhat or not familiar with HPV extended genotyping
- 6% reported using extended genotyping in practice
- 5% had discussed extended genotyping with patients
- 94% were not confident, or only somewhat confident, explaining the benefits of extended genotyping.
The surveyed GPs also gave feedback on what resources would help them integrate self-collected extended genotyping into their practice, which included:
- clear patient guidance materials on correct self-collection
- follow-up protocols for managing positive or inconclusive results
- training resources and decision-support tools
- clarity on Medicare reimbursement and screening guidelines.
As Australia moves toward the World Health Organization goal of eliminating cervical cancer, giving GPs the knowledge and confidence to use this new technology is essential, said Dr Roeske.
‘We have an opportunity to close this gap and further strengthen our screening program,’ she said.
‘Supporting GPs through education, guidelines, and practical tools will be vital to achieving the best possible outcomes for women.’
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