COVID-19 Update - screening services operating

As our country responds to an emergence of COVID-19 in the community, all our cancer screening programmes are continuing to operate, with appropriate safeguards in place to keep participants and staff safe. We are recommending that people over 70, or with pre-existing medical conditions, check with their family doctor (or other health professional) as to whether it is safe to attend appointments.

Cervical and breast screening will continue for most women, although there may be some deferment of appointments for more vulnerable groups. Bowel screening invitations and home testing kits will continue to be sent out and we are asking people who get a test kit in the mail to complete it and send it back without delay. More information about bowel, breast and cervical screening can be found at www.timetoscreen.nz

Antenatal and newborn screening services will continue to be provided but with some changes to ensure the ongoing safety of women and babies. More information can be found about antenatal and newborn services at www.nsu.govt.nz/pregnancy-newborn-screening/covid-19-information-pregnancy-and-newborn-screening-participants