Telehealth Pathways for Cervical Cancer Prevention: A Scoping Review of Strategies to Close the Screening Gap

Abstract

Background: Cervical cancer screening faces significant challenges in low- and middle-income countries. Telehealth has emerged as a potential strategy to overcome barriers to cervical cancer screening; however, its role in improving screening uptake and outcomes remains unclear. Objective: This scoping review aims to map and synthesize evidence on the role of telehealth in enhancing cervical cancer screening. Methods: A scoping review was conducted following Arksey and O’Malley’s framework. A comprehensive search was conducted across PubMed, Scopus, and CINAHL for studies published between 2015 and 2025. Studies were included if they examined telehealth interventions related to cervical cancer screening. Results: A total of 13 studies were included, comprising randomized controlled trials, quasi-experimental studies, and one mixed methods study. Four main categories of telehealth interventions were identified: web-based platforms, mobile and app-based services, virtual education programs, and mobile screening services. Overall, these interventions demonstrated potential to improve access, increase screening uptake, and support follow-up care across diverse settings. Conclusion: Telehealth represents a promising approach to improving cervical cancer screening access, participation, and follow-up, particularly in underserved populations. By focusing on primary quantitative evidence, this review provides a more targeted understanding of how telehealth can support screening implementation. Further research should evaluate long-term effectiveness, user experience, and the integration into healthcare systems.