Summary
The data confirms what has long been known. There has never been definitive evidence for a benefit for Liquid based cytology screening compared with conventional screening, especially when sample collection is standardized and the laboratory meets reasonable standards.
Objectively, liquid based cytology has essentially replaced conventional Pat testing in this country, and it is unlikely that there is evidence that would reverse this. However, it is possible such studies will put downward pricing pressures on reimbursments, both in amounts and frequencies.
Analysis
Currently, reimbursements for liquid based cytology are close to twice those for conventional Pap. A modest portion of the costs to the lab are the costs of the liquid based reagents and equipment. Technical costs in fact should be lower, since the screening should be faster. The success of liquid based Pap in the market resulted from a significant amount of DTC advertising, and increased reimbursements. In a medical care system desperate for cost savings, it is plausible that margins of both manufacturers and providers will face challenges.
