Project Title: Optimizing Primary Care Communication for Implementation of HPV Primary Screening in Alberta (OPTIMIZE-HPV)
End Date: October 31, 2026
Survey Link: https://redcap.albertahealthservices.ca/surveys/?s=XC7NCERTD3NDD8DL
In November 2025, Alberta began transitioning from Pap testing to HPV primary screening as the new standard for cervical cancer screening. This change is expected to improve early detection of cervical cancer and support future innovations such as self-sampling. As this transition continues, effective communication with healthcare providers will be critical to successful implementation.
We’re seeking family physicians, nurse practitioners, nurses and midwives involved in cervical cancer screening to share their experiences and perspectives on HPV primary screening communication, information challenges and patient interactions.
Participation involves a 60-minute virtual focus group discussion, during which you’ll be asked about topics related to HPV primary screening, including:
1) How you receive and use Alberta Cervical Cancer Screening Program communications;
2) Communication strengths, gaps and information challenges related to HPV primary screening; and
3) Ideas to inform practical communication resources for providers, such as key messages, FAQs, visual aids, educational (CME) opportunities and decision-support tools.
Your insights will help inform the development of provider-facing resources to support consistent, effective implementation of HPV primary screening across Alberta.
Participation is voluntary. If you’re interested in participating or learning more, please contact:
Meghan Macphail, Research Associate at meghan.macphail@primarycarealberta.ca
