By NATALIE GALLENTI
WOMEN living in the City of Melton and Moorabool Shire can now have free pap test in a comfortable and welcoming environment.
Djerriwarrh Health Services last week announced the commencement of its Well Women’s Clinic in Melton, Caroline Springs and Bacchus Marsh, and chief executive officer Bruce Marshall said the clinic aimed at increasing the rate of pap screens by improving women’s access to information on health issues and by providing a free service.
Mr Marshall said while cervical cancer could be prevented through screening, only 51.6 per cent of women living in the municipality participated in regular pap tests.
He said the new facility would be staffed by a qualified and accredited sexual and reproductive health nurse, who could discuss any issue including breast health, contraception, menopause, continence issues, pre-pregnancy advice and pregnancy tests, in addition to performing a pap test.
“Our Well Women’s Clinics are also staffed by female nurses who have a commitment to quality care provided according to each individual woman’s needs,” Mr Marshall said.
“Sometimes, we have questions about our health, but we are unsure about who to ask. The Well Women’s Clinic provides the opportunity for women to learn more about their health and to develop ways to maintain good health in a safe and supportive environment.”
All adult women aged 18 to 70 years who have ever been sexually active should have a pap test every two years. Pap tests can prevent nine out of 10 cervical cancers.
