Enhancing Access to Cervical Screening Clinics in Derby through Community Collaboration

Cervical screening plays a vital role in early detection and prevention of cervical cancer. Yet, many patients face challenges attending routine screenings due to various barriers such as scheduling conflicts, transportation issues, or lack of awareness. In Derby, a collaborative effort between Primary Healthcare Derby, the General Practices of Greater Derby and Oakdale Park Primary Care Networks (PCNs), and Derby County Community Trust has made significant strides in addressing this problem by offering additional cervical screening clinics. This initiative has already delivered over 60 successful screening tests in just the first two weekends, with plans to provide nearly 200 more appointments in February and March for patients who previously struggled to access these essential services.

The Importance of Cervical Screening

Cervical screening helps detect abnormal cells in the cervix before they develop into cancer. Regular screening is recommended for women aged 25 to 64, as it significantly reduces the risk of cervical cancer through early intervention. Despite its importance, many women miss their routine screenings due to:

• Busy schedules or work commitments

• Childcare responsibilities

• Limited access to healthcare facilities

• Anxiety or fear about the procedure

• Lack of information about the screening process

  
  

These barriers can lead to delayed diagnosis and treatment, increasing health risks. Addressing these challenges requires flexible, accessible healthcare options tailored to the community’s needs.

How the Collaboration Works

Primary Healthcare Derby, the General Practices of Greater Derby and Oakdale Park PCNs, and Derby County Community Trust joined forces to create and raise awareness of additional cervical screening clinics specifically designed for patients who have previously been unable to attend. This partnership combines the healthcare expertise of Primary Healthcare Derby, and the nursing teams in our General Practices, with the community reach and support services of Derby County Community Trust.

Key features of this collaboration include:

• Weekend Clinics: Offering appointments on weekends to accommodate those who cannot attend during regular weekday hours.

• Community-Based Locations: Clinics held in accessible, familiar community settings to reduce travel and anxiety.

• Targeted Outreach: Focused communication to patients who missed previous screenings, encouraging them to book appointments.

• Support Services: Providing information and reassurance to patients about the screening process to ease concerns.

  
  

This approach ensures that more patients can access cervical screening without disrupting their daily lives.

Impact So Far

In just the first two weekends, over 60 additional cervical screening tests were carried out. This early success demonstrates the demand and effectiveness of offering flexible clinic times and locations. The initiative plans to continue with additional clinics in February and March, aiming to provide nearly 200 more appointments.

This increase in available appointments means:

• More women can complete their routine screenings on time.

• Early detection of potential cervical abnormalities improves.

• The community benefits from reduced cervical cancer risks.

• Healthcare providers can better manage patient flow and reduce backlog.

  
  

The collaboration also highlights the value of community trust organisations in supporting public health initiatives by reaching diverse populations.

Patient feedback from the first two weekends has returned an average satisfaction rating from attending patients of 4.64 / 5, reflecting the dedication and hard work of the team involved.

What Patients Can Expect

Patients attending these additional clinics can expect a welcoming and supportive environment. The clinics are staffed by experienced healthcare professionals who prioritise patient comfort and confidentiality. Before the appointment, patients receive clear information about what to expect during the screening, helping to reduce anxiety.

Some practical tips for patients include:

• wear something you can leave on during the test, like a skirt or long jumper

• bring someone with you for support

• try breathing exercises to help you relax – ask the nurse or doctor about these

• ask the nurse or doctor to use a smaller speculum if you feel any discomfort

• ask if you can put the speculum in yourself if you would prefer to

• ask about lying in a different position – such as on your side with your knees pulled up to your chest

• bring something to listen to or read during the test

  
  

By making the experience as smooth and reassuring as possible, the clinics encourage more women to participate in regular cervical screening.

How the Community Can Support

Community members can play a role in spreading the word about these additional clinics. Sharing information with friends, family, and neighbours who may have missed their screenings can help increase attendance. Local organisations and workplaces can also support by promoting the clinics and facilitating time off for appointments.

Healthcare providers encourage patients to:

• Book appointments early to secure preferred times.

• Keep track of screening schedules and reminders.

• Reach out to healthcare teams if they have concerns or need assistance.

  
  

Together, the community and healthcare services can improve cervical health outcomes across Derby.

Looking Ahead

The success of these additional cervical screening clinics sets a positive example for other communities facing similar challenges. By working together, healthcare providers and community organisations can create accessible, patient-centred services that remove barriers to care.

The hope is that this model will inspire further initiatives to support routine health screenings and preventive care.