Newfoundland and Labrador Health Services is set to provide a series of Pap test clinics across the province in the upcoming weeks. Residents in the Central and Eastern Zones can attend the following clinics:
– On Friday, September 20, 2024, at the Dr. Hilda Tremblett Wellness Centre in Bonavista. Appointments can be made by calling (709) 468-5176.
– On Saturday, October 19, 2024, at the Women’s Health Clinic at Health Sciences Centre in St. John’s. To book an appointment, individuals should call (709) 777-3018 or (709) 777-7460.
– On Friday, October 25, 2024, at the Dr. Y.K. Jeon Kittiwake Health Centre in New-Wes-Valley. Appointment bookings can be made by calling (709) 536-1118.
Additional clinic dates will be announced soon.
Appointments are available on a first-come, first-served basis and are open to all individuals, without the need for a referral from a primary care provider.
A 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 start regular Pap testing by age 21. It is important for patients to schedule routine Pap tests and follow-up appointments, as these tests can detect cell changes before cancer develops, facilitating timely treatment.
After undergoing Pap testing, about one in ten individuals may receive an abnormal result. Those with abnormal findings will be contacted by a healthcare provider to discuss further steps.
Additionally, anyone can arrange for a Pap test at any time during the year by reaching out to their primary healthcare provider or by calling one of the province-wide numbers listed on the health service’s website.