Texans can now perform cervical cancer screening from the comfort of their homes through Teal Health’s at-home test, the first federally approved alternative to the traditional pap smear. The Food and Drug Administration granted approval for this screening method in May, and Texas became the eighth state to offer it.
Enhancing Screening Accessibility and Comfort
Kara Egan, CEO and co-founder of Teal Health, emphasized the importance of making preventive care more accessible and comfortable. “Nearly one in three women are behind on their cervical cancer screenings,” she noted, highlighting the challenges patients face in obtaining preventive care.
A national study involving 16 sites found that 94% of people preferred this at-home method over traditional clinical screenings. Egan states, “The test offers the same accuracy as a doctor’s office sample collection but is far more preferred by users.”
How the At-Home Test Works
The test device resembles a tampon and is self-inserted to the patient’s comfort level. A soft sponge collects a sample that is then mailed back to Teal Health’s lab for analysis. The screening detects high-risk strains of Human Papillomavirus (HPV), which can lead to cervical cancer.
Since launching in California in June, the product has received positive feedback from users appreciating the autonomy and safety it provides. “Many say, ‘Finally, I can do this from home and feel safe,’” Egan shared.
Rollout Plans and Telehealth Integration
Teal Health is gradually expanding access state by state, with approximately 40,000 people nationwide on a waitlist. Texas was prioritized due to its population size and demand, with plans to cover all states by 2026.
The process starts with a telehealth appointment, where a clinician reviews eligibility, explains the test, and prescribes the kit. For insured patients, the clinical visit may be covered under in-network plans, leaving a $99 fee for the kit. Those without insurance pay about $249 for both the visit and test. Efforts are underway to have insurance cover the kit as well.
Clinical Support and Follow-Up Care
After testing, results are sent to the patient’s doctor, who reviews and communicates them, offering guidance on any required in-person follow-up. “We ensure patients understand their results and next steps,” Egan said, addressing a key barrier since in some areas up to 75% of patients do not complete follow-up appointments.
Addressing Screening Gaps in Rural and Underserved Communities
This at-home option is especially critical for rural residents where providers are scarce. Regular screenings dramatically improve health outcomes by detecting cervical cancer early.
Cervical Cancer Burden and Screening Decline During COVID-19
Annually, about 4,000 people in the U.S. die from cervical cancer, and Texas has one of the highest incidence rates nationwide. The COVID-19 pandemic led to a steep drop in preventive screenings like pap smears and mammograms.
While mammogram rates have rebounded, cervical cancer screenings lag behind. “Many are unaware of the importance of cervical cancer screening,” Egan said, underscoring that regular screening makes cervical cancer almost entirely preventable.
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