Understanding Perceived Barriers to Colposcopy Follow-Up Among Underserved Women at an Urban Teaching Hospital: A Qualitative Study

Inadequate knowledge was the most commonly identified barrier to colposcopy follow-up during qualitative interviews of 18 women despite positive perceptions of physician communication and education. Objective Loss to follow-up after abnormal cervical cancer screening disproportionately impacts underserved populations. Our objective was to identify perceived barriers to follow-up after abnormal Pap smear among underserved women. Methods Women with abnormal Pap smear presenting for colposcopy at an urban teaching hospital were asked to participate in qualitative interviews. A topic guide was developed to assess knowledge about cervical cancer screening and perceived barriers to follow-up. A demographic survey was completed and interviews were recorded and transcribed. Responses were coded and placed into a framework: intrapersonal, interpersonal, and community barriers. Major themes and subthemes were identified. Demographic data were reported descriptively. Results Of 24 women enrolled, 18 (75%) completed full interviews. Median age was 38 years (range = 21–64). Participants were racially diverse: 10 (56%) Hispanic, 7 (39%) non-Hispanic White, 1 (5.5%) non-Hispanic Black, and 1 (5.5%) Asian, and all had public insurance. Seven (39%) presented for their 1st colposcopy visit and 11 (61%) had previous visits. Seventeen (94%) had a positive human papillomavirus test and 7 (39%) had atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance. The most common themes identified were related to knowledge gaps, including lack of understanding of Pap smears/human papillomavirus and cervical cancer risk factors. Most participants were satisfied with provider communication but dissatisfied with communication with the office, like scheduling appointments. Conclusions Despite positive patient perception of physician communication, knowledge was most commonly identified as a barrier to colposcopy follow-up. Implementing a web-based intervention addressing knowledge gaps may improve abnormal cervical cancer screening follow-up among this population.