Anne Rabbitte
Question:269. Deputy Anne Rabbitte asked the Minister for Health the status of the roll-out of the HPV test; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40839/18]
View answerTuesday, 9 October 2018
Questions (269)
Written answers
I approved the switch to HPV testing as the primary screening mechanism for the CervicalCheck programme in February 2018, with cytology as a reflex test. This will involve a reconfiguration of the laboratory work involved and will be subject to a tendering process for any work carried out outside the public sector. The HSE have advised that detailed capacity planning is ongoing, and a project steering group comprising all key stakeholders is in place.
The introduction of the HPV test as the primary screening test is a key priority, which will significantly improve the accuracy of the screening process. My Department is engaging with the HSE to ensure that implementation of the switch to HPV testing progresses as quickly as possible.