Lay summary
Whānau living in rural Aotearoa have barriers to timely care involving distance from centres, lack of community control and prioritisation of rural needs by District Health Boards. Using our innovative cervical cancer prevention care pathway, this proposal addresses these inequities. Our work in Te Tai Tokerau shows that Human Papilloma Virus self-testing (self-collected swab) is acceptable to Māori women, but there are still women unable to access testing and/or timely follow-up. In partnership with the community, this study explores whether the immediate presentation of screening results, with appropriate follow-up support, improves access. Innovative point-of-care technology provides results (within an hour), combined with HPV self-testing and immediate referral appointments. These innovative strategies both empower communities and women with local governance, on-site testing, rapid results and the ability for co-decision making. Findings from this study will have significant implications for the broader delivery of rural health services.