CervicalCheck clinic list should be published immediately
Women across the country continue to be invited for HPV tests through CervicalCheck, however many overwhelmed doctors are not in any position to offer the testing. Labour has called on the Government to prepare an online list of doctor’s who are providing this lifesaving service. Particularly in the context of watching Lynsey Bennet on the steps of the High Court yesterday, women throughout the country are concerned about potential delays.
Senator Rebecca Moynihan said:
“Last March when COVID first landed on our shores our cancer screening services were suspended. Much of Autumn and Winter was spent clearing backlogs and inviting priority patients for screening. However, now, in February, it is still next to impossible to get a smear test.
“While CervicalCheck website says that screening has resumed, many clinics overwhelmed with COVID aren’t able to prioritise this service, and some are not offering the service under Level 5 restrictions. That’s why Labour is calling for the Government to publish a list outlining all clinics carrying out this service.
“I personally had to ring five GP practices to book an appointment, and we are overwhelmed with contact from women who are in the same position. This free service saves lives and we need to make is as easy and accessible as possible.
“This is causing serious stress with women across the country. As we watched yet another young mother go through the courts yesterday, many women are eager to have their smear tests carried out as soon as possible.
“Labour Leader Alan Kelly has raised this issue in the Dáil again today, and called on the Tánaiste to instruct the HSE to update its website with a comprehensive list of clinics providing the screening service. Providing an online list would make the process much easier, and provide reassurance to women throughout the country. This simple solution should be acted on to save lives.”