A dedicated staff cervical screening clinic is starting for Trust staff – to help make the process as easy as possible.
The service wants to capture those women who may have challenges making a screening appointment.
One in three women do not take up the offer of a screening in Teesside.
Nicola Anderson is lead specialist nurse colposcopist. She said: “There are various reasons why it may be difficult for women to arrange a screening appointment.
“We know that people have busy lives and it can be a challenge to arrange it around work commitments.
“This new initiative is about making this process much easier for our own staff and capturing women who may not make an appointment.
“Staff can book an appointment with us during their working day, if needed, so that they don’t even need any time away.
“Any screening appointment missed is a potential opportunity missed to catch any issues early.”
Cervical screening checks the health of the cervix. Invitations are offered to women from the ages of 25 to 64.
It is not a test for cancer, but rather a test to prevent cancer. A small sample of cells checked for certain types of high risk human papillomavirus (HPV).
Staff can call the colposcopy hub and an appointment will be arranged from:
- Women’s outpatients at the University Hospital of Hartlepool
- Main outpatients at the University Hospital of North Tees
To contact the service, staff should ring 01429 522268.
For more information about cervical screening, please visit the NHS website.
