On March 3, 2025, the human papillomavirus (HPV) test replaced the Pap (cytology) test as the primary test for cervical screening in the Ontario Cervical Screening Program (OCSP).
Changes to the OCSP Cervical Screening and Colposcopy Recommendations:
- The age of cervical screening initiation is 25.
- There are new screening intervals, indications for referral to colposcopy and cessation criteria. For more information, refer to the Cervical Screening FAQs for Healthcare Providers.
- HPV testing is used in colposcopy to determine eligibility for discharge and the recommended interval for screening post-discharge from colposcopy.
Important Process Changes:
- The new OCSP cervical screening requisition must be used to order program-related HPV and cytology tests for eligible participants.
- Program-related specimens must be collected using the ThinPrep® system. Any specimens collected using SurePath™ will be rejected.
- All program-related tests will be performed by LifeLabs, Dynacare or North Bay Regional Health Centre. More information on working with these laboratory partners can be found in the Frequently Asked Questions.
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