A charity has called for a rapid overhaul of the system that manages cervical cancer screening inJo’s Cervical Cancer Trust made the call in response to the findings of a review of screening services which identified weaknesses in the way the system manages exclusions from regular tests.
The focus of the review, carried out by Healthcare Improvement Scotland, was on how the system inviting women to be screened manages exclusions to identify where improvements can be made. It made 18 recommendations on how to improve the system, including a review and revision of the nationally agreed procedures for cervical screening and putting in place “a clearly documented process” for the management and application of exclusions.
Iona Stoddart, deputy head of information and engagement with Jo’s Cervical Cancer Trust, said: “This report is very welcome and the recommendations will ensure the programme is more suited to individual patient needs, and is as effective and safe as possible.