Newfoundland and Labrador (NL) Health Services has announced the availability of Pap test clinics across the province in the upcoming weeks. Clinics in the Central and Eastern Zones are scheduled as follows:
– Friday, September 20, 2024, at the Dr. Hilda Tremblett Wellness Centre in Bonavista. To book an appointment, call (709) 468-5176.
– Saturday, October 19, 2024, at the Women’s Health Clinic at Health Sciences Centre in St. John’s. Appointments can be made by calling (709) 777-3018 or (709) 777-7460.
– Friday, October 25, 2024, at the Dr. Y.K. Jeon Kittiwake Health Centre in New-Wes-Valley. To schedule an appointment, contact (709) 536-1118.
More clinic dates will be announced in the future.
Appointments are available on a first come, first served basis, and no referral from a primary care provider is necessary. The Pap test is a straightforward procedure that plays a crucial role in preventing cervical cancer. The Canadian Cancer Society recommends that individuals with a cervix who are sexually active begin regular Pap testing at age 21. It is important for patients to commit to regular Pap tests and follow-up appointments, as these tests can detect cell changes before cancer develops, enabling timely intervention.
Following a Pap test, approximately 10% of individuals may receive an abnormal result. Those with abnormal findings will be contacted by a healthcare provider for further steps.
Additionally, individuals can schedule Pap tests anytime during the year by reaching out to their primary healthcare provider or calling numbers available on the provincial health website.