Reference: 2012-001 - An Audit of Cervical Screening and Follow up in the Kimberley Region

Researchers:Dr. Philippa Chidgzey, Dr. Carole Reeve (Kimberley Population Health Unit); Dr. Lauren Turner, Dr. David Atkinson, Dr. Melissa Roberts (Kimberley Aboriginal Medical Services Council); Dr. Wendy Hughes (Broome Hospital – WA Country Health Service); Dr. Rebekah Adams (Broome Regional Aboriginal Medical Service)

Funding:

Project summary:Cervical cancer and cervical abnormalities represent a significant health concern for Australia’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander female population, especially in rural and remote locations. Service delivery of pap smears for Aboriginal women may be limited for many reasons in this region, including cultural appropriateness of screening delivery and follow up, screening promotion, the transient nature of many people in the region and also by the limited number of pap smear providers in the region. There are currently two specialist gynaecologists in the Kimberley Region available to perform definitive diagnostic procedures on women with screen detected abnormalities. Currently, each health service site follows up women with abnormalities within each locality and refers for gynaecology services when required.

This project in essence is an audit that aims to identify all women aged 18 to 69 years within the region to ascertain their pap smear screening and follow up. The results will help to provide an epidemiological framework for cervical screening program evaluation and identify any concerns relating to women’s health service delivery in the Kimberley region. With this information we aim to identify any gaps and make recommendations for improvements in electronic communication systems between health service sites and organisations in the Kimberley region in relation to cervical health.

Progress: Ongoing