§ Mr. MitchellTo ask the Secretary of State for Health further to his answer of 10 January 2000,Official Report, column 54W, on cervical smears (1) if he will take into account the information on the effectiveness of the Neopath/Tripath Autopap system in the USA and Europe in making his decision on introducing it in this country; [108150]
(2) if, for the testing and introduction of the Neopath/Tripath Autopap machine for cervical screening tests, he will prioritise areas which have particular shortages of trained staff or long delays in their cervical screening programme. [108149]
§ Yvette CooperWe welcome any new technology that would improve the effectiveness and efficiency of the cervical screening programme. However, before any technology is introduced, we must be sure that it is safe and effective, and that quality standards can be maintained.
The Advisory Committee on Cervical Screening (ACCS) held preliminary discussions on the Tripath Autopap system (previously Neopath Autopap system) as part of a wider discussion on automated screening procedures at their meeting in June 1999. The ACCS advised that further evaluation was necessary. An evaluation is underway, partly funded by the National Health Service cervical screening programme, and a report is expected later in the year. Information on the effectiveness of the system in the United States of America and Europe will be taken into account. Decisions on the introduction of this new technology will be taken if and when it is proved to be effective.