This study investigates clinicians’ adherence to revised cervical screening guidelines and aims to identify any reasons for them screening women outside the revised guidelines.

A total of 607 clinicians (283 general practitioners and 324 obstetricians and gynaecologists) participated. Of these, 37.8% of GPs and 43.8% of O&Gs said they would provide testing more frequently than indicated by guidelines, although they recognised the need for patients to be aware of the additional cost and for guidelines to be explained. This included screening women at a younger age than indicated due to patient request, patient/family history and the need for patient reassurance and performing a HPV and cytology co-test when not indicated, mainly as a result of a mistake or lack of familiarity with guidelines, patient/family history and patient reassurance. 

The findings suggest that it is likely cervical screening outside guidelines is occurring in Australia. As patients often request these tests, strategies to reduce screening outside the guidelines should include ensuring that women are aware of the financial implications and the reasons for the updated guidelines.