Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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475. To ask the Minister for Health his plans for the elimination of the backlog and waiting lists for women awaiting the results of cervical smear tests; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43925/18]

Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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On 30 April last, I announced that any woman who had had a CervicalCheck smear test, and whose GP considered that they should have a further test, could access such a test without charge. This decision was taken in the context of the need to provide reassurance to women in light of the media attention surrounding CervicalCheck. I am advised by the HSE that current CervicalCheck laboratory activity remains significantly above normal levels. This is a result both of out-of-cycle smears, and also increased uptake in the screening programme generally. This has impacted turnaround times for results of smear tests.  

The HSE advises that every effort is being made to ensure that tests are processed as quickly as possible, having regard to the high standards required for testing. This is a priority concern for my Department and the HSE.

Heads of Agreement have now been signed with the contracted labs to extend their contracts pending the introduction of HPV testing as the primary screening test, and these include arrangements to address the backlog in testing.  

It is important to emphasise that smear tests are a screening test and not a diagnostic one, and if any women is concerned or is experiencing any symptoms, she should consult with her GP.