HC Deb 12 December 1988 vol 143 c447W
Ms. Walley

To ask the Secretary of State for Health what action he is taking to ensure a quicker turnover of the results of cervical cancer smear tests.

Mrs. Currie

As at 1 September 1988, the latest date for which we hold information, almost 75 per cent. of health authorities reported that they were meeting the Department's target of ensuring that laboratories report the results of cervical smear tests within one month to the doctor who submitted the smear. Health authorities' performance is closely monitored and those not meeting this target are asked to detail the action they are taking to remedy the situation. Specific policy options are discussed with health authorities as appropriate and these include:

  1. (a) recruitment of additional laboratory staff;
  2. (b) consideration of staff grading structures in the light of the recently agreed new pay and grade structure for medical laboratory scientific officers and support staff;
  3. (c) overtime working;
  4. (d) use of other NHS laboratories;
  5. (e) use of private laboratories;
  6. (f) reducing the numbers of excess smears, for example those taken more frequently than the locally agreed interval.