From 1 April 2016, the age range and frequency of cervical screening will change for routine screening to three yearly from age 25 and five yearly from age 50 to 64 (currently three yearly from 20-60 years). Women on non-routine screening will be invited up to the age of 70 years, (a change from current arrangement of 68 years).
This change was announced by the Scottish Government in December 2012 following the report of the Expert Review Group and in accordance with the recommendations of the National Screening Committee. A question and answer document can be found on the Health Scotland website or for Smear Takers and Call Recall Offices it can also be accessed on the SCCRS system.
The professional question and answer document has been developed by the Cervical Screening Change in Age Range and Frequency Communications group which has representation from National Services Division, Scottish Government, Screening Board Coordinators, NHS Education for Scotland, Jo’s Cervical Trust, the public, NHS Health Scotland, Health Protection Scotland and NHS 24.
The Q&A is one component of a wider communications strategy which is being developed and implemented to prepare health professionals and the public in advance of the service change. If you have any questions about the Change to the Age Range and Frequency of Cervical Screening please email traceycurtis@nhs.net
