Screening invites and reminders
CSAS sends out screening invitation and reminder communications to the following schedule:
| Six weeks before a patient’s test is due | Invitation will be sent |
| 18 weeks after the first invitation communication, if no test has been carried out | Reminder will be sent |
| 14 weeks after their reminder communication, if no test has been carried out | Patient will be labelled as a non-responder and GP practices will be notified |
Patients don’t need to have a copy of the invitation communication to book a smear test. If the patient cannot locate a communication and is due to be tested, they can contact their GP practice for assistance. GP practices can check on the NHS Cervical Screening Management System (CSMS) whether or not someone is due for screening.
Results and result communications
Patients should expect to receive their cervical screening results in writing within 14 days from the date of the test being taken.
CSAS receives electronic files containing patient results from laboratories daily.
Depending on where the sample was taken, we send out result communications to the patient according to their result, detailing what action needs to be taken, and any repeat screenings recommended by the laboratory, as appropriate.
Abnormal result referrals
If a result is abnormal, patients are sent a Direct Referral to Colposcopy. The GP Practice will also be notified of an abnormal result and the Direct Referral to Colposcopy recommendation.
Patients should contact their GP Practice or the number on the referral letter to organise a colposcopy appointment.
Further Information
During 2025, we will be moving to digital communications. This move will allow you to view your screening communications via the NHS App. For more information about the NHS App, either click this link or scan the QR code below.
