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Media Release: SHINE SA Launches Free Telehealth Self-Collect Cervical Screening Service

SHINE SA

SHINE SA is proud to launch a FREE Telehealth Self-Collect Cervical Screening Service, funded by Preventive Health SA.

Cervical screening is one of the most effective ways to prevent cervical cancer or detect it earlier. However, many South Australians still face barriers to regular cervical screening — whether due to distance from a provider, a lack of accessible and inclusive services, or the cost of care.

That’s why SHINE SA is making it easier than ever for South Australians to access this potentially life-saving screening through a free, telehealth-based self-collection service—supported by Preventive Health SA.

This service lets you carry out the test in the comfort and privacy of your own home. It has been designed for those who face barriers to accessing cervical screening; whether you’re overdue for your cervical screen, live in a rural or remote area, or experience difficulties accessing in-clinic services, getting this important test is now just a phone call away.

“We know that cervical screening can be difficult to access for many people. Whether due to location, time, finances, discomfort, or past experiences,” said Jessica Willis, Executive Manager, Clinical Services, SHINE SA.

“This service is about removing those barriers. By offering a simple, private, and supported way to screen from home, we’re helping more South Australians access cervical screening.”

 

What is Telehealth Self-Collect Cervical Screening?

Our telehealth service uses self-collection, which is a simple way for people to collect their own sample by using a swab in the privacy of their own home.

The process is safe, and backed by strong evidence:

“Self-collected samples are just as accurate as clinician-collected ones for detecting HPV, the virus that causes almost all cervical cancers,” said Kelly Vernon, Sexual Health Nurse, SHINE SA.

After a telehealth consultation with an experienced SHINE SA sexual health nurse, clients will be mailed a screening kit. This kit includes clear instructions for how to collect the swab and a pre-paid return envelope to send the sample to SHINE SA’s pathology partner VCS Pathology for analysis. Once processed, a nurse will contact the clients with their results and any necessary follow-up care.

SHINE SA’s CEO, Holley Skene said, “SHINE SA is here to serve those with the most need and least choice. When it comes to cervical screening, we know that certain groups are less likely to be screened for various reasons, including those who may have discomfort around a physical examination.

SHINE SA, as a Rainbow Tick Accredited and inclusive organisation is committed to ensuring no-one is left behind and we are grateful for this support from Preventive Health SA to help us reach vulnerable communities across the state.”

 

Book a Cervical Screening with SHINE SA

Visit SHINE SA’s website to learn more about cervical screening self-collection and to book a telehealth cervical screening.

www.shinesa.org.au/telehealth-cervical-screening 

About us:

SHINE SA is South Australia's leading provider of comprehensive and integrated sexual and reproductive health services and programs.

Contact details:

Media Contact: Sara Perri, Communications Advisor, SHINE SA 8300 5378, [email protected]