OBJECTIVES: Although all Thai women are entitled to access cervical cancer screening services, the incidence and mortality rates of the cancer are still high. Several factors, such as knowledge, embarrassment, and inconvenience, affect the screening rate and hinder the success of the screening policy. Recently, self-collected samples for HPV DNA testing have been included in the health benefit coverage for Thai women. This should decrease screening-related barriers. Therefore, our study aimed to assess the feasibility of cervical cancer screening policy by using self-collected samples for HPV DNA testing in Thailand.

METHODS: Intensive individual in-depth interviews were carried out in 40 participants to explore their perspectives. Participants included medical providers involved in cervical cancer screening (n=20) and women aged 25-65 years who were the target group of the screening (n=20). This study was conducted at Siriraj Hospital. There were 2 separated listed of open-ended questions for providers and target group.

RESULTS: Most participants thought that a self-collected samples for HPV DNA testing was acceptable, and considered it as a promising way to decrease the barriers to screening uptake. However, some concerns were raised. Samples might not be collected and delivered accurately. Injury might occur during the self-sampling procedure. Public relations and education for patients and providers are important parts of the policy success. All pointed out that women who were at risk or had gynecological symptoms had to be examined by a clinician. Moreover, a consensus clinical practice protocol for cervical cancer screening is needed.

CONCLUSIONS: A self-collected samples for HPV DNA testing was highly accepted and supported by both providers and the target group. To maximize the screening rate, providing awareness about the importance of screening is key. Nevertheless, this screening method cannot replace a clinician screening, it should be considered as another option to increase the screening rate in non-attendees.