Thousands of Women in Northern Ireland to Have Cervical Smear Tests Rechecked
More than 17,000 women in Northern Ireland are to undergo a re-examination of their cervical smear tests as part of a comprehensive review dating back to 2008. Some will also be recalled for new tests, according to a recent report commissioned by the Royal College of Pathologists (RCPath).
The RCPath report revealed multiple issues within the cervical screening process in Northern Ireland, including significant underperformance among cytology staff, flawed mechanisms for checking their work, and inadequate management response. While most negative tests were accurate, a notable number could have been considered "potentially abnormal" by other laboratories.
In response to the report, Southern Trust is re-examining the smear tests of around 17,500 women to update their records and offer reassurance. However, resource limitations and an existing backlog in Northern Ireland are preventing the trust from fully implementing the report's recommendation, which suggests recalling anyone with a negative or inadequate result who hasn't undergone subsequent smear tests for retesting.
The Department of Health has labelled the report's findings as "clearly unacceptable," reflecting the gravity of the situation. Dr. Steve Austin, the trust's medical director, has issued a public apology for the distress and anxiety caused to women affected by these screening issues.
In a bid to provide support and assistance to those affected, a freephone helpline (0800 9520255) has been established, operational on weekdays from 9:00 am to 6:30 pm BST, and on Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm BST.
