Overview
- HRSA now recommends primary high-risk HPV testing every five years for average-risk people ages 30 to 65, allowing self-collected or clinician-collected samples.
- Most private insurers must cover the recommended screening and required follow-up without cost-sharing by Jan. 1, 2027, with patient navigation coverage already in effect.
- Pap testing remains available, with Pap smears every three years retained for ages 21 to 29 and as an option when HPV testing is not used.
- FDA authorized self-collection in clinical settings in 2024 and approved the first at-home kit in 2025, with at-home access available by prescription.
- Officials cite evidence that self-swab HPV tests perform similarly to clinician-administered tests and say expanded options aim to lift screening rates after recent declines.