Cervical Cytology Laboratory Review
December 2009 Update
The Review Group met on the 10th November 2009 (View Steering Group Minutes).
The main points of discussion were the report on the feasibility of using Thinprep ImagerŪ (TIS) in the NHS in Scotland and an options appraisal paper for the future design and delivery of the service (both papers attached below).
- Thinprep ImagerŪ (TIS) Feasibility Study
This study assessed the qualitative and quantitative impact the use of Image assisted screening would have if introduced in NHS Scotland. This was a 6 centre study and involved a total cohort in excess of 180000 cervical cytology requests.
The 2 main recommendations are outlined below :-
Recommendation 1
It is the recommendation of the Group that on the balance of the evidence Image Assisted Screening would be beneficial to the NHS in Scotland and the women within the screening programme if it can be introduced cost effectively.
Recommendation 2
Based on a positive cost benefit outcome and on completion of the Cytology Laboratory Review, consideration should be given to creating a National Framework agreement to allow Health Boards to adopt the technology at a pace suited to their needs over a period of three years.
- The options appraisal paper for the future design and delivery of the service.
An options appraisal of cervical cytology laboratory delivery was carried out by Tribal Consulting in conjunction with stakeholders and the review group. This took into account the many drivers for change affecting the service.
Outcome
The outcome based on benefits and risks and scored by stakeholders indicated that a Network model of delivery scored highest among the stakeholders. At this stage there had been no financial assessment of the options.
Further Work
Work is to be carried out on the cost/benefit of the 2 papers and this is to be reported at a meeting early Jan 2010. This will be around :-
- Costings for service as it is
- Projected cost of the service with a Network model of delivery
- Costs of a Network model with Imager.
This work will be carried out by Tribal Consulting in conjunction with the Scottish Pathology Network (SPAN).
The feasibility study will continue and Edinburgh Royal Infirmary will be the 7th lab to go into an active phase following validation.
Again many thanks to all the labs who took part in the study during a very difficult period.
Derek Bishop
SPAN Manager
December 2009