We’re restarting our screening programmes but have made some changes to how we deliver these services.
These changes are to make sure we can keep you and our staff safe during this difficult time. Staff will be wearing the recommended personal protective equipment (PPE), and our reception and waiting areas will be quieter. But we would like to reassure you that there is no change to the screening test itself.
Please call the number on your invitation letter to book your appointment. If you’re able to attend, it’s important to do so. Cervical screening can stop cancer before it starts.
You may have some questions or you may be worried about going to your screening appointment. We’ve tried to answer some of the questions and concerns you may have in this leaflet. But please call the number on your invitation letter if you have any other concerns.
We’re sorry if your last screening invitation was delayed because of COVID-19.
Where can I find the most up-to-date information on public transport?
For the most recent guidance on how to travel safely, go to Transport Scotland’s website:
www.transport.gov.scot/TravelAdvice
I’ve been asked to shield, should I still make an appointment?
Shielding information may change. To find the most up-to-date advice on shielding please go to the NHS inform website: www.nhsinform.scot/coronavirusshielding
I’m self-isolating right now. Should I go to my appointment?
You should not go to your appointment if you’re self-isolating.
Please call your GP practice to change the day of your appointment.
What will be different when I go to my appointment?
You may be asked to wear a face covering during your appointment, in line with national guidance. You may be
asked to use hand sanitiser before coming into the building. Staff may also be wearing PPE, such as masks, gloves, aprons, face visors or eye protection. Your screening appointment may take longer to allow for safety measures to be followed.
Is it safe to attend my appointment?
We’ll still have our normal safety measures, as well as adding new ones. You can help keep the risk low by following any instructions given to you when you arrive, as well as general guidance for keeping yourself safe. You can find out more about keeping yourself safe on the NHS inform website: www.nhsinform.scot/coronavirusadvice
How long will I have to wait for my appointment?
You may have to wait longer than usual for your appointment. This is because there are fewer appointments at GP practices due to the extra measures that are being put in place to keep you and our staff safe. If you have symptoms please let your GP practice know.
I have a cough and/or other signs of COVID-19, what should I do?
If you have any signs of COVID-19 (cough, fever or a loss of, or change in, sense of smell or taste), please do not go to your
appointment. Please call you GP practice to change the day of your appointment.
If you think you have COVID-19 and would like to check your symptoms, phone 0800 028 2816. Or, to find out more about the symptoms of COVID-19, go to the NHS inform website: www.nhsinform.scot/coronavirusadvice
Can someone come with me to my appointment?
Please go to your appointment alone unless you need help from a carer or family member. Anyone not attending an
appointment will be asked to wait outside. We’re trying to limit the number of people within the building and waiting
room areas.
When should I arrive for my appointment?
Arrive as close to your appointment time as possible. Waiting room space is limited to allow for distancing.
What should I do when I arrive?
You’ll be given instructions about what to do once you arrive at your appointment. You may be asked to wait outside as
waiting room space is limited. This will allow you to keep the recommended distance from other people.
Where can I get more information?
For more information on cervical screening please go to the NHS inform website:
www.nhsinform.scot/cervicaltest
More information and support is available through Jo’s Cervical Cancer Trust: www.jostrust.org.uk/coronavirus-faqs
Staff at your GP practice will be happy to help with anything you need to know.
