Cervical cytology screener
Cervical cytology screeners use a microscope to examine cells to
screen for abnormalities that may be the first signs of cervical
cancer, so that the disease can be prevented from spreading. The
samples are taken from the patient as a smear by a nurse or doctor and put onto slides which are
sent to the cytology laboratory where they are processed and passed
to the screener, who examines them carefully under a microscope to
detect any abnormal cells.
The screener decides whether there is any abnormality, and if there
is, calls a doctor who will take action. Although cervical cytology
screeners are supervised by biomedical
scientists, they are responsible for the accuracy of their own
work, therefore there is a high level of responsibility
involved.
Entry requirements
There are no formal requirements to work as a trainee cytology screener, although a good range of GCSEs are an advantage. You will be expected to sit for the Cervical Screening Programme Certificate in order to qualify.
You could typically enter this area of work as a healthcare science assistant or associate.
Training
Training is on the job and also on intensive residential courses
that last for a few weeks. You will normally attend a course near
the beginning of your training and again when you have been working
in a laboratory for between six and twelve months.
After nearly two years practical training you will be able to sit
for the NHS Cervical Screening Programme Certificate in cervical
cytology to become a qualified cervical cytology screener.
There will usually be opportunities to develop your career in the life sciences through the Modernising Scientific Careers programme.
How to apply
Vacancies are advertised on the NHS Jobs website and in the local
press. You can also contact the personnel officer or head
biomedical scientist at a hospital where you would like to
work.
Further Information
Further information is available from:
Institute of Biomedical Science
12 Coldbath Square
London
EC1R 5HL
Tel: 020 7713 0214
Fax: 020 7436 4946
Email: mail@ibms.org
Website: www.ibms.org
National Association of Cytologists
Website: www.nac.org.uk
For more information on medical laboratory assistants click here