An example of ideal utilisation of specialist services by primary care: cervical check

Cancer of the cervix is the 8th most common cancer for women in Ireland.Cervical Check has organised and combated this clinical presentation nationwide and has shown encouraging figures since its launch in 2007. While working in Kerry General Hospital (KGH), the Southwest Specialist Training Scheme in General Practice carried out an audit of the colposcopy referrals being received from GPs in the southwest. Adherence to Cervical Check referral guidelines was the main focus of the audit. Very positive figures presented in round one of the audit cycle, with 51 (90%) of all GP referrals adhering to the guidelines. This was further improved by a GP information campaign, leading to 57 (93%) of referrals meeting the appropriate referral criteria. Overall, this paper highlights the excellent screening programme that is Cervical Check and the superb working relationship between primary and secondary care facilities.