The new service is designed to improve access to cervical screening for people who may face barriers to attending routine appointments at their GP practice. The mobile unit will visit community locations every four weeks across the borough and offer appointments during evenings and weekends.
Cervical screening (previously called a smear test) is a routine check offered to eligible people aged 25 to 64 as part of the NHS Cervical Screening Programme. It looks for a common virus called human papillomavirus (HPV), the virus responsible for almost all cervical cancers and early changes in the cervix (the entrance to the womb). Finding these changes early can help prevent cervical cancer.
The first clinics will take place on the following dates, times and locations:
The mobile unit offers the same cervical screening test available at a GP practice, delivered by experienced healthcare professionals in a private and comfortable clinical environment. Walk-ins are accepted, subject to availability and demand on the day and women can attend regardless of which Walsall GP practice they are registered with.
A friendly member of the team will explain the screening. Attendees can bring a friend or family member with them. Those attending should allow around 15 to 20 minutes for the appointment, although the test itself usually takes about two minutes. After the appointment, the test will be sent off and results will be sent by post.
The mobile unit has a ramp and enough space inside for a standard wheelchair. People need to be able to move from their wheelchair onto the screening bed without assistance.
While cervical screening saves lives, some people may face practical, cultural or personal barriers that make it more difficult to attend an appointment. The new mobile service will provide an additional option for eligible residents who may experience difficulties attending appointments during normal working hours, language or communication barriers, transport difficulties or other barriers to attending routine appointments, caring responsibilities, anxiety, embarrassment or previous negative experiences.
Residents who are able to attend cervical screening appointments at their GP practice should continue to do so when invited. The mobile service complements existing GP-based screening services, offering an additional option for eligible people who may face barriers to attending routine appointments.
“ Everyone who is eligible for cervical screening should be able to access it in a way that works for them. We know that some people may feel nervous about attending screening, while others face practical challenges such as work commitments, caring responsibilities or transport difficulties. By offering appointments in community locations and outside normal working hours, this new service aims to remove some of those barriers and make it easier for more people to take up their invitation and benefit from this important preventative health programme.
Dr Nadia Inglis, Director of Public Health
“Residents who are able to attend their routine cervical screening appointment at their GP practice should continue to do so when invited. “
Walsall Council
While cervical screening is an important way to help prevent cervical cancer, residents are also encouraged to contact their GP if they notice symptoms lasting more than three weeks, such as unexplained weight loss, ongoing tiredness or fatigue, ongoing tummy problems, feeling very tired, heartburn, indigestion or unusual bowel movements. Early diagnosis can make a significant difference in getting treatment early.
To find out more about cervical screening and why it is done, visit the NHS website.
Walsall residents affected by cancer can access practical advice and emotional support from Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust’s Information and Outreach Support Service throughout their cancer journey. This support is available to patients, families and carers by calling 01922 602610 or email Ciss.enquiries@nhs.net.
You can also get information and support from Cancer Research UK.
