A new 2027 rule lets women 30–65 use at-home HPV tests every 5 years, covered by insurance, to improve cervical cancer screening access.

A new federal regulation that goes into effect in January 2027 permits women between the ages of 30 and 65 to select a self-collected at-home high-risk HPV test every five years, with private insurance paying for the test. The test, which received FDA approval in May 2025, provides a practical and reliable substitute for Pap smears, which are still advised for women aged 21 to 29 every three years. By lowering obstacles like scheduling, discomfort, and access problems, particularly in underprivileged areas, the modification seeks to increase screening rates. Cervical cancer has a 90% five-year survival rate when detected early, but that number drops to 20% at later stages, making early detection crucial. Approximately half of diagnosed women have never been screened or are past due, despite a 50% decrease in cases over 50. Through increased access, the update promotes patient-centered care and better results.