Evaluation: Nurse Colposcopy Training Model Pilot, Victoria, Australia
Project Details
A colposcopy is a diagnostic examination recommended following positive or abnormal cervical screening test results. In Australia, gynaecologists typically perform this procedure, but there's growing global evidence supporting the effectiveness of task-shifting to nurses. With only two nurses currently trained in colposcopy in Australia, there's a pressing need to expand nurse training in this area.
Expanding nurse training can help alleviate the long wait times for colposcopy appointments, especially in rural and remote areas. These delays can lead to postponed diagnosis and treatment for patients. To address this issue, the Nurse Colposcopy Training Model, led by the Royal Women’s Hospital in Melbourne, aims to improve access to colposcopy and enhance patient experiences.
The pilot of this Training Model, the first of its kind in Australia, is set to begin in 2024 and will run until mid-2025. The Nossal Institute will evaluate this pilot program to assess its effectiveness and suitability. Their findings will guide recommendations for scaling up the model to train more nurses, initially in Victoria and potentially across the country.
The final report of the evaluation will be submitted to the Victoria Department of Health in June 2025.
Researchers
Funding
This project is funded by The Royal Women’s Hospital