The results of Pap smears and related cervical investigations must be provided to the Department of Health by all laboratories within 60 days of completing the test. This includes both cytology test results (screening) and histological test results (cervical biopsies).

A woman may choose to not have her results forwarded to the Cervical Cytology Registry . In this instance, the Pap smear provider is responsible for notifying the laboratory that these results should not be forwarded to the Register (by clearly marking the pathology request form).

All identifications of cervical cancer must be reported to the Western Australian Cancer Registry (see Notification of Cancer). This is required under the Health (Notification of Cancer) Regulations 1981.

Relevant legislation

The statutory requirement for notification of cervical cancer test results is specified in Regulation 9 of the Health (Cervical Cytology Register) Regulations 1991.

Responsibility for notification

The person in charge of the laboratory undertaking cervical cancer testing, unless the woman has elected to opt out of the reporting system.

Who must be notified

Under the Health (Cervical Cytology Register) Regulations 1991, the Commissioner of Health must be notified. Notification occurs through the process outlined below.

How to notify

The results of Pap smears and other cervical investigations must be electronically forwarded to the Department of Health by laboratories. The laboratory is to send an encrypted and signed email with cervical cancer test results attached.

Notification is due:

Within 60 days of completing the test.

For more information regarding notification of cervical cytology testing or the Cervical Cytology Registry

Contact the WA Cervical Cancer Prevention Program
Women and Newborn Health Service
North Metropolitan Area Health Service
Department of Health

2nd Floor, Eastpoint Plaza
233 Adelaide Terrace
Perth WA 6000