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Pap smear reminders ~ Remember your next Pap smear!
When you have your Pap smear the results are recorded on a central reminder service. This reminder service is called the Back-up Record System.
What is the reminder service?
When your Pap smear is taken, your doctor sends it to a laboratory. All laboratories which test Pap smears and biopsies record the results on the Back-up Record System. This system reminds women and their doctor if a Pap smear or follow-up treatment is overdue. The information on the system is strictly confidential and is protected by law.
How did my results get onto the system?
Whenever you have a Pap smear or biopsy the results are recorded on the Back-up Record System through the laboratory which processes the test.
What happens if I don't want to be on the system?
If you do not want your information recorded on the Back-up Record System, tell your doctor at the time the Pap smear is taken. You can also have your name and details removed at any time by writing to the Data Manager at the address below. Please include your name, address and date of birth (DOB) or call on 8226 8731.
But remember, if you choose not to have your results recorded, you will not receive reminder letters from the Back-up Record System. You will need to remember yourself when your next Pap smear is due.
What information is recorded?
Your name, date of birth, where available your address, results of your Pap smear and your doctor's name. Results of further investigations you may have following an abnormal smear, such as colposcopy, human papillomavirus (HPV) or biopsy, are also recorded.
How often are reminder letters sent?
If we have your address and if your last Pap smear was normal you will receive a letter two years and six months after that test, that is, six months after your test was due. If you had an abnormal result, you will receive the reminder earlier, depending on what the result was.
Once you have joined the reminder system please let us know if your details (such as your name or address) have changed so we can keep our records up to date. Please phone the Reminder Section on 8226 8731 (country callers can ring 13 15 56 for the cost of a local call).
Why are regular Pap smears necessary?
A Pap smear can detect early changes in the cells of the cervix, which if left untreated may lead to cancer of the cervix. The cervix is made up of millions of tiny cells. Sometimes changes occur and abnormal cells develop. Remember, a Pap smear can detect early cell changes before you would notice anything unusual or notice any symptoms. Early detection and treatment of these changes can prevent cancer of the cervix from developing.
Where can I get further information?
For further information or to let us know if you change your name or address, please contact the SA Cervix Screening Program (contact details below). Country callers can ring 13 15 56 for the cost of a local call.
