Experiences of Cervical Screening in Derbyshire and Derby City
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Healthwatch Derby and Healthwatch Derbyshire undertook research to understand women's experience of cervical screening. Between February and April 2025, they collected the views of 294 people from Derbyshire and Derby City about cervical screening via a survey and semi-structured interviews.
Four in fie said that they attended their cervical screening appointment when they received their last invite
Over nine in ten said they received their invitation by letter. Only 1% of people said that they have not been contacted at all about booking a cervical screening appointment
Over three in five had a positive experience at their last cervical screening appointment
One in ten found that booking a cervical screening is difficult
Over four in five said that the information they received before their cervical screening appointment was extremely clear or very clear
Some people would have liked more information before the appointment, so they would be better informed about what would happen at the appointment
In the interviews, most people reported no significant barriers with booking appointments and accessing cervical screening. Some people raised concern about limited appointment flexibility.
Many people said that making the cervical screening process more accessible and less intimidating would positively influence their decision to attend.
Most people said they are grateful to be invited to cervical screening appointments and feel fine about attending their next appointment.
Some people said that things could be put in place to make them feel more comfortable, such as more information about the procedure before the appointment, and nurses suggesting positions or techniques to make the process more comfortable.