Cervical Screening

Cervical screening is completed by your Doctor or our Nurse Practitioner Leah Gordon.

‍All people who have cervical smears are part of The National Cervical Screening Programme, unless they specifically state that they do not want to be. We recommend that all persons stay within the programme due to the following benefits:  

• Availability of records to you, your clinical team and the laboratory reading your tests

• Automatic reminder letters when you are overdue for having a cervical screen

• Checks to ensure the right follow-up after an abnormal test result

• Planning for the needs of different ethnic groups

The programme is checked regularly to see that it is working well and it is measured against National Quality Standards to help all people with a cervix get the best possible screening and treatment.

‍Until 12 September, smears are currently free if you meet one of the following criteria:

• This is your first cervical screen

• Are Māori / Pasifika

• Have not had a smear in the last five years

‍From 12 September, the primary test for cervical screening (previously called a “smear test”) will change to a human papillomavirus (HPV) test with the option of self-testing at your appointment. For more information, please visit the Time to Screen website.