Screening during the Coronavirus Pandemic

Due to the coronavirus pandemic, some of our screening services were paused. All of the programmes in Wales have now started inviting people again.

You can travel out of your local area to attend your screening appointment, including during lockdown, as this is a medical appointment which is a ‘reasonable excuse’ to travel.

Taking part in screening is something you can do to look after your health.

We understand, you may be worried if you have missed your appointment, are due for screening or your screening invitation has been delayed. Be assured we are working very hard to catch up.
 

Keeping safe

We have introduced measures to keep you and our staff safe when you attend for your screening appointment. These measures may include:

• Waiting outside until called
• Staff wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) as they will need to be near you (within 2 metres)
• Being asked to wear a face covering when attending
• Having fewer people in healthcare buildings – you will probably only see the person taking your test
• Deep cleaning of equipment and waiting areas
• Having hand sanitiser available

We would like to reassure you that there will be no change to the screening test itself. 

Remember, to stop the spread of coronavirus do not attend for screening if you have symptoms of coronavirus, have tested positive, or have been advised to quarantine or self-isolate.

The symptoms of coronavirus are one or more of the following:

• New continuous cough

• High temperature
• Loss of or change to your normal sense of smell or taste

To find out more about the symptoms of coronavirus visit:  https://gov.wales/self-isolation-stay-home-guidance-households-possible-coronavirus

It is really important that you let us know if you will not be attending your appointment, for whatever reason. We might be able to offer your appointment to someone else.

More information about screening during the coronavirus pandemic

Please look out for your invitation. If you have any concerns or are unsure if you should come for screening, you can call the number on your letter.

To find out more about screening and the individual programmes, please visit our website https://phw.nhs.wales/services-and-teams/screening/ 

Signs and Symptoms

If you are worried about any changes in your health please do not wait to be invited for screening. It is very important you speak to someone at your GP surgery even if you have had a previous normal screening test.

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