When one size does not fit all: Using participatory action research to co-create preventive healthcare services

Abstract

Organized screening programs have proved effective at reducing cervical cancer in Sweden by offering early detection of precancerous cells. However, participation rates vary across groups of women. The purpose of this paper is to explore how participatory action research contributes to (re)designing cervical cancer screening programs to better meet local residents’ needs and expectations. The paper examines the Pap smear testing barriers encountered by foreign-born women. It is also reported how different actors within the healthcare system as well as civil society can work together to address these barriers and improve healthcare services. Moreover, the paper contributes to action research methodology by demonstrating how participatory inquiries benefit from quantitative monitoring of improvement initiatives.