Spire Healthcare is witnessing more women than ever seeking advice on their gynaecological well-being.
One of the UK’s largest private hospital providers, Spire Healthcare, is seeing a significant rise in enquiries from women requesting information and appointments for private smear tests throughout its 36 hospitals. Enquiries and bookings for cervical smear tests at Spire Hartswood Hospital, Eagle Way, Brentwood have tripled in February and March compared to last year. Well woman screens and consultations with gynaecologists are readily available and the results are obtained within five days, potentially helping to reduce anxiety and allowing women to positively take control of their health.
The NHS currently offers a national cervical cancer screening programme for women aged 25 and over. A woman is typically called for a screening appointment once every three to five years. Cancer Research UK states that that changes in the cervix are more common in younger women resulting in a high return of abnormal rest results and high incidence of patient testing recall.
Head of Wellness Health Screening at Spire Hartswood Hospital and a GP in Benfleet, Essex, Dr Charlotte Rose, comments:
“The proportion of women aged 25-30 having NHS cervical screening has fallen in recent years from 80% in 1995 to 70% in 2005/6. However, such screening is extremely important and it is encouraging to see more women actively seeking private testing and being responsible for their gynaecological well-being. Though abnormalities are rare, treatment outcomes are better the earlier they are detected. Regular and consistent screening plays an important part in this. The recent increase in enquiries and appointments demonstrates just how women are taking cervical screening more seriously than ever before and the message about the importance being screened is getting heard.”
Women can find out more about the range of health screens available at Spire Hartswood Hospital, including cervical smear tests which are available for all sexually active women between the ages of 18 and 65, with prices starting at £110, by calling 01277 266 764.
Spire Hartswood Hospital provides a range of BUPA Wellness health screens to companies and individuals. Under this arrangement, clients benefit from a quality-assured service, provided locally in Essex without the need to travel to London. More about BUPA Wellness health screening.