WOMEN in Redditch will no longer be able to receive routine cervical smear tests at sexual health clinics.
Previously, residents who were unable to attend their GP appointment could go to one of the clinics but now all routine smear tests will be provided by GPs.
The only instance in which smear tests will be offered at a clinic is if a woman is already there for another reason and a sexual health nurse notices her test is overdue.
A trust spokesperson said: “Women will continue to be invited for their routine cervical smear tests by their GP, who is funded to carry out this work rather than the community sexual health service.”
Cervical screening is important because cancer of the cervix often has no symptoms in its early stages and can go undetected.
Borough Mayor Joe Baker, who has campaigned for sexual screening tests, said: “I think the reduction of any sexual health services will have a detrimental effect on health and put people at risk.
“I think it’s really important that sexual health services are there for the whole community, and I know that not everyone feels comfortable visiting their doctor.
“For example, as a member of the LGBT community, I know that making testing less accessible, in any way, can have a negative impact.
“Lesbian and bisexual women are a group particularly at risk of not being regularly checked for cervical cancer, and I believe removing a service like this from regular clinics can only be a bad move.”
Women aged 25 to 49 registered with a GP will continue to receive a letter inviting them to make an appointment for a screening every three years and those aged 50 to 64 every five years.
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