NECS, which manages the Cervical Screening Administration Service (CSAS), is playing a vital role in the NHS’s efforts to eradicate cervical cancer by 2040. The service supports the National Cervical Screening Programme by sending invitation and reminder communications to eligible individuals, as well as notifying them of test results following laboratory analysis.
In a significant move forward, NECS is driving a new digital initiative to modernise communication with participants for cervical screening. From May, cervical screening invitations will be delivered digitally, utilising NHS Notify to support communication through the NHS App, SMS and where needed traditional letters.
Over the next twelve months, this transition will include reminder communications and results.
This digital transformation is designed to offer numerous benefits:
- Faster communication with participants.
- Reduced anxiety while waiting for test results.
- Improved accessibility for users with additional needs.
- Expanded language options to be rolled out over the coming year.
- Fewer returned letters, thanks to improved data validation.
Paul Roberts, CSAS Head of Service at NECS, said: “This is a significant step forward, giving participants greater choice in how we communicate with them and improving accessibility. The move will provide the Cervical Screening Programme with an agile, data-informed and participant-centred service, with improved accuracy and fewer returned letters.”
Participants are strongly encouraged to download the NHS App and enable notifications for quicker access to screening results and updates. In addition, envelopes now include a QR code to guide users to the app, supporting greater uptake and accessibility.
Cervical screening is estimated to save approximately 5,000 lives annually in the UK. Read more about the NHS’s ambition to eliminate cervical cancer by 2040 and at The Eve Appeal charity’s plan to eliminate cervical cancer in England.