Overview of organisational methods of primary cervical lesion screening programmes that use human papillomavirus testing

Abstract

Many factors need to be considered when planning and managing a screening programme for the early detection of cervical cancer (CC). A non-systematic international review of the organisation of CC screening using high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV-HR) testing, aimed at identifying the organisational methods of these programmes, was conducted with a view to supporting the future of the French system in the context of the transition to HPV-HR testing. In countries where HPV testing has been implemented or planned, the initial reflection process has provided an opportunity to rethink the previous (cytological) screening organisation. Despite considerable differences between countries, a nationally or regionally centralised organisational model appears to be the preferred option in most countries. This model is based on a national/regional structure tasked with all invitations, reminders, follow-up and coordination, centralised laboratories integrating both biology and pathology laboratories, and a unified information system integrated with routine health management tools used by health practitioners and nurses. Besides quality considerations, grouped purchasing makes it possible to implement a public procurement policy that includes price negotiations with suppliers. Discussions around the introduction of HPV testing have resulted in most countries reviewing or creating information systems and quality assurance processes. While the WHO seems to recommend the systematic use of vaginal self-sampling, very few countries have considered this option. More and more countries are planning to implement vaginal self-sampling, but no clear organisational model has emerged from the countries where it has been implemented to date.