From 10 June 2023, cervical cytology screening services for Canterbury, Ashburton, West Coast and Kaikoura regions will be provided via Canterbury Southern Community Laboratories (CSCL). CSCL is part of the Awanui group, who currently provides >50% of the NCSP services nationally. Please review the following information to ensure continuity of supplies and result reporting.

Smear taker setup

If you are a smear taker or referrer who is not currently set up with CSCL, and will be sending cytology work to CSCL,  we ask that you please complete this New Referrer Form and email it to cscl.referrerupdates@sclabs.co.nz prior to 10 June 2023 to ensure seamless reporting.

The set up for West Coast referrers is already underway, this group does not need to complete the New Referrer Form.

Consumable ordering

Consumables required for cytology screening services can be can be ordered online via our website. Please clearly note the required delivery address on your order.

Sample pickup

For referrers who have existing CSCL courier services, samples can be placed out for collection with your routine laboratory pickup.

We will be in contact with our new referrers in the coming weeks to confirm arrangements for specimen pickup and delivery to the lab.

Result reporting

Results will be reported to the requestor/s and the NCSP register as per the request form.

Changes to the test

From 26 July 2023, the primary test for cervical screening will change to a human papillomavirus (HPV) test.  Once this change is introduced, there will be the option of a smear test (Surepath) or a vaginal swab.  You can expect further information on swab type and collection closer to the transition. 

If you have any further queries, please contact us at cscl.enquiries@sclabs.co.nz