Analysis of Notable Facilitators
Many studies discussed facilitators and interventions that encouraged
young women to undergo cervical cancer screening. Increased knowledge
and awareness were noted in twelve
studies.24,26,28,30,33,34,36,39,42,44-46 Specific
points of knowledge included severity of disease,24,30as well as the understanding that the test could allow successful
prevention and treatment of cancer.28 High
self-efficacy and perceived control/empowerment about health was a
facilitator in three studies.43,47,48
Trusting and longitudinal relationships with their healthcare providers
were noted as facilitators in four studies,25,32,39,42as was choice of healthcare provider specifically25 or
testing by a female physician.32 Hobbs et
al39 specifically noted that physicians who were able
to communicate well and put patients at ease acted as a facilitator.
Alternative methods of screening such as self-sampling were noted as a
facilitator of cervical cancer screening to avoid perceived
invasiveness.34,49
Social norms and public perceptions, including if friends and family
members received testing, was noted as a
facilitator.20,29,33,37,46,48 A diagnosis of cervical
cancer in the family was noted as a motivation for undergoing
screening,33 as well as support or encouragement from
one’s mother specifically.37 Media coverage was noted
to encourage participation in cervical cancer screening, particularly if
involving celebrities or public figures.26,34
Facilitators to improve the logistical barriers of cervical cancer were
analyzed. Five studies noted either telephone or written reminders would
be helpful for patients.25,32,39,42,43 To address the
time constraints of patients, Black et al32 and
Blomberg et al25 noted that cervical screening could
be linked with appointments for prescription renewals or other
examinations. In addition, Blomberg et al25 suggested
flexibility in time and location of screening, including options such as
screening available on college campuses. Shorter wait-times, expanded
clinic hours, and having someone pick up the phone when patients book
appointments were noted as practical options by Hobbs et
al39. Cost-free services, provision of babysitting
services, and arranged transportation were also
suggested.25,35,39