Federal Cervical Cancer Collaborative: Preparing Safety-Net Systems of Care for HPV Self-Sampling for Cervical Cancer

The Federal Cervical Cancer Collaborative aims to prepare safety-net healthcare systems for the implementation of HPV self-sampling as a strategy to improve cervical cancer screening access, particularly for underserved and vulnerable populations. This initiative, led by the Health Resources and Services Administration, focuses on building the infrastructure, protocols, and workforce capacity required to integrate self-sampling into routine care delivery within federally funded clinics and community health centers. The effort seeks to overcome systemic barriers such as lack of access, cultural hesitancy, and logistical challenges that have historically limited participation in traditional Pap-based screening programs. The project will involve collaboration with clinical providers, public health agencies, and community organizations to develop scalable models for distributing HPV self-sampling kits, ensuring clinical follow-up for positive results, and maintaining continuity of care across the screening-to-treatment continuum. Emphasis is placed on equity, with targeted outreach to populations facing disparities in cervical cancer prevention and outcomes. The initiative is forecasted to begin in 2026 and is anticipated to support the modernization of public health services through innovative, patient-centered approaches, ultimately reducing cervical cancer incidence and mortality through earlier detection and improved screening adherence.