Ajit Johal, immunize.io Health Association
The last mile to HPV elimination: Unlocking pharmacy-based screening and immunization
This two-year study examines the impact of HPV assessments in participating pharmacies in Surrey, B.C. During regular visits, pharmacists assess patients’ vaccination and screening status, provide education about HPV, offer self-screening kits and administer HPV vaccines when appropriate. Pharmacies also follow up to encourage kit returns and completion of the vaccine series.
The project aims to overcome barriers such as limited access to primary care, language and cultural challenges, and transportation difficulties. Researchers are collecting quantitative data through pharmacy management systems and qualitative feedback from participating pharmacists and patients. The intent is to build a model that could be adopted by pharmacies across the country—and help the Canadian government achieve its goal to eliminate cervical cancer by 2040.
