Cancer | Cervical Cancer
Care Plan Library
Introduction
This page is part of the Care Plan Building Library used by GeneralPracticeTraining.com.au.
It is designed to help clinicians and practice teams apply standardised, evidence-based cervical cancer screening and prevention recommendations in general practice.
Condition Overview
This snippet focuses on cervical cancer prevention and early detection, including cervical screening and HPV vaccination.
Cervical cancer is largely preventable through effective screening and vaccination programs, with GPs playing a central role in early detection and patient participation.
Screening Age Bar (Overview)
0–9 | 10–14 | 15–19 | 20–24 | 25–29 | 30–34 | 35–39 | 40–44 | 45–49 | 50–54 | 55–59 | 60–64 | 65–69 | 70–74 | 75–79 | ≥80
Routine screening applies from ages 25 to 74 years.
Table of Recommendations
Screening – Recommended as of 28/06/2024
| Recommendation | Grade | How often | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cervical screening is not recommended in women under 25 years of age | Screening not recommended (strong) | N/A | Evidence does not support screening under 25, even with early sexual activity |
| Consider a single HPV test between ages 20–24 only in selected individuals (first sexual activity <14 years and not vaccinated prior to sexual debut) | Practice point | N/A | Individualised decision; not routinely required |
| Women and people with a cervix aged 25–74 years who have ever had sexual contact should have an HPV screening test (self-collected or clinician-collected) | Recommended (strong) | Every 5 years | Applies to eligible patients |
| Women with a negative oncogenic HPV screen at ages 70–74 do not require further routine screening | Practice point | N/A | Exit screening applies |
| Women aged ≥75 years who have never been screened or not screened in the last 5 years may request screening | Practice point | On request | Self- or clinician-collected sample |
Preventive Activities and Advice
Recommended as of 28/06/2024
| Preventive activity | Grade | Age group | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Administer one dose of 9-valent HPV vaccine | Recommended (strong) | Ages 9–26 years | Includes catch-up vaccination |
| HPV vaccination in adults ≥26 years | Generally not recommended | N/A | Consider individual risk, prior exposure, and future exposure risk |
Care Plan Snippet – Cervical Cancer Prevention (Table Format)
Care Plan Details
Item: Preventive care (may be incorporated into GP Chronic Condition Management Plan – Medicare item 965 where relevant)
Date: [Insert date]
Patient Details
Patient: [Patient name], [DOB], [Contact details]
GP Details
GP: [Doctor name], [Clinic name]
GP Management Plan – Problems / Goals / Treatments / Arrangements
| Patient need / risk | SMART goal | Required actions | Arrangements and follow-up |
|---|---|---|---|
| Risk of cervical cancer | Participate in cervical screening as recommended | Explain screening purpose and intervals. Offer self-collection or clinician collection. Address concerns and misconceptions. | Recall system every 5 years. Results review and follow-up as per guidelines. |
| HPV infection risk | Reduce HPV-related cancer risk | Offer HPV vaccination if eligible. Provide education on HPV and cancer prevention. | Vaccination scheduling and documentation. |
| Barriers to screening | Improve screening participation | Address discomfort, cultural concerns, prior negative experiences. Consider topical oestrogen in post-menopausal patients if appropriate. | Tailored appointment planning. Interpreter or support services if needed. |
Prevalence and Context
Cervical cancer remains a significant but preventable condition in Australia.
In 2021, approximately 913 new cases were diagnosed. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women experience higher incidence rates. Under-screened individuals remain at greatest risk.
Australia is on track to eliminate cervical cancer by 2030 through high HPV vaccination coverage, effective screening, and timely treatment. GPs play a key role in achieving this through vaccination, screening, and patient engagement.
Special Considerations
Self-collection
Self-collected vaginal HPV samples must be ordered and overseen by a healthcare professional. Patients should be counselled on result interpretation and follow-up requirements.
Pregnancy
Women who are due or overdue for screening can be safely screened during pregnancy using an appropriate technique. Self-collection is an option following counselling.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples
Refer to the National Guide for culturally appropriate recommendations and screening support.
LGBTIQA+ and trans men
Provide respectful, inclusive, gender-affirming care and discuss screening options sensitively.
Review and Follow-up
Ensure results are reviewed, communicated, and acted upon.
Arrange appropriate follow-up for positive HPV results according to national guidelines.
Closing and LinksYou can use our Care Plan Building Tool to incorporate cervical cancer screening and prevention into individualised care plans.
Explore our online courses, completed by thousands of health professionals worldwide, covering preventive care and cancer screening.
This page is periodically updated.
Please check back for the latest version aligned with national cervical screening guidelines.