Blandford Group Practice decided to take action to improve their cervical screening uptake during this January’s Cervical Cancer Prevention Week by running a drop-in cervical screening (smear test) clinic. Anyone who had not taken up their screening invite had the chance to walk in and have their test without needing to book first.
The nursing team at Blandford did 43 cervical cancer screening tests that day and booked many more for other dates. All these were for people who were overdue the test and some that had never had screening before.
Cervical screening nurses Louise Packham and Buffy Wareham
Louise Packham, Senior Nurse Manager at Blandford Group Practice said,
“We thought that it would appeal to some of our patients to be able to drop in and not have to book first but we didn’t realise what an overwhelming positive response we would get. We had people turning up for the whole day.
“People told us that they had been putting off having the test, and it was good that they could act on impulse and pop in for it.
“One woman said to me how handy it was for her to fit this in with her work and home life, a lot easier than working around the surgery. Another person said this was an excellent service, so much better than trying to book an appointment and work around her menstrual cycle.”
All women and people with a cervix between the ages of 25 and 64 are sent a letter in the post inviting them to make an appointment for regular cervical screening.
According to Cancer Research UK, 99.8% of cervical cancer cases are preventable. “Getting an early diagnosis is so important” said Dr Madeleine Ford at Blandford Group Practice. “Having regular smear tests is one of the best ways to protect against cervical cancer.
“We want to reassure patients that we know that this test can seem daunting, and that our nurses are sensitive to this. They are skilled and professional. If you have any questions about your cervical screening, ask a member of staff.
“If you missed your last cervical screening, you do not need to wait for a letter to book an appointment. Don’t put it off, book yours today.”
The quickest way for patients to book an appointment is via the Blandford Group Practice website and the online form. Alternatively, patients can call or visit the practice in person.
