Arizona Medicaid Adds New Self-Collected HPV Test for Cervical Cancer Screening

FDA recently authorized self-collected high-risk human papillomavirus (hrHPV) testing in a medical facility for routine cervical cancer screening (CCS). This important update is for women’s health. It is not for patients who have symptoms or need follow-up testing after abnormal results.

This self-collection option approved by the FDA offers a helpful solution for patients who are unable to have a cervical sample collected in the usual way.

Who Can Use the New Test

• The test is only for women between the ages of 30 and 64.
• Patients must have no symptoms such as unusual bleeding or signs of infection.
• They should not be using any vaginal products within two days of the test.
• It’s also important that they are not HIV positive and have no history of cervical cancer.
• Only those who are eligible for primary HPV testing can use this method.

Testing and Coding Information

• Healthcare providers should verify kit availability with their lab partners.
• CPT® codes 87624 or 87626 should be used to document the screening.
• Tests must be completed within the current measurement year or the previous four years to meet HEDIS® compliance.
• When Arizona Medicaid is a secondary payer, a secondary claim must be submitted to close care gaps.

Understanding the Test Results

• HPV Negative: Repeat screening in 3 years
• HPV 16 or 18 Detected: Refer for colposcopy
• If types like 56, 59, or 66 show up with extended genotyping, retesting in one year may be advised.
• For other types, a follow-up visit is needed to collect a new sample.

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