Back to Annual Meeting Page		American Public Health Association 133rd Annual Meeting & Exposition December 10-14, 2005 Philadelphia, PA

Abstract #104397

Andrea S. Doughty, PhD¹, Emily Boyd, MD², and James C. Ha, BA¹. (1) Research Support Services, University of Illinois College of Medicine, 1601 Parkview Avenue, Rockford, IL 61107, 815 395-5756, andread@uic.edu, (2) Barnes-Jewish Hospital, One Barnes Hospital Plaza, St. Louis, MO 63110

In 2002, the American Cancer Society (ACS) outlined new guidelines regarding cervical cancer screening, and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) have agreed with ACS recommendations. The new guidelines introduce the use of new screening tools, revise some risk categories based on health histories and lifestyle factors, and redefine the initiation, discontinuation, and screening intervals for women with low risk characteristics. The new guidelines are a departure from the “annual Pap” for some women and may require the education of both physicians and patients before full adoption can occur.

The objective of this study is to examine the level of self-reported use of specific aspects of the screening guidelines by both Family Practitioners and Obstetricians/Gynecologists. A second objective is to assess any concerns physicians may have regarding the guidelines and any perceived barriers to implementation within their practices. The overall goal is to determine current adoption levels and identify the specific educational needs of subgroups of physicians. In addition, information on barriers due to insurance or health plan policies are being identified.

A self-administered, knowledge based survey designed to target the revisions to the guidelines was pilot tested in the fall of 2003. Based on those results, the tool was shortened and focused. The final instrument is being distributed to all Family Practitioners (3,776) and Obstetricians/Gynecologists (1,827) in Illinois. An initial mailing is being followed by a full re-mailing two weeks later. All data and recommendations will be presented by selected demographics as well as specialty group.

Learning Objectives:

• Describe the level of self-reported use of the ACS Cervical Cancer guidelines by Family Practitioners and Obstetricians/Gynecologists.
• List three barriers to the implementation of the cervical cancer guidelines.
• Develop an educational plan to increase physician knowledge and use of the guidelines.

Keywords: Cancer Screening, Practice Guidelines

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

I wish to disclose that I have NO financial interests or other relationship with the manufactures of commercial products, suppliers of commercial services or commercial supporters.