Update On Progress In Implementing Gisborne Cervical Screening Inquiry Recommendations

Health Minister Annette King today released the first briefing report from the Ministry of Health showing early progress in implementing the recommendations of the Gisborne Cervical Screening Inquiry Report.

When Mrs King released the report at a public meeting in Gisborne on April 10, she said she had asked the Ministry to provide monthly reports charting progress on implementing the recommendations.

"Importantly progress has been made on recommendations regarding the evaluation of the National Cervical Screening Programme, amendment of the Health Act and the future role of ethics committees. In all, 32 of the 46 recommendations have been completed or are underway.

"The Government will introduce legislation this year that will cover the amendments necessary to evaluate the programme effectively, including changes to section 74a of the Health Act."

Mrs King said the Ministry had established a steering group to oversee the implementation of the recommendations. The group, comprising officials from across the Ministry, is headed by National Screening Unit (NSU) Group Manager Karen Mitchell.

"I will also be meeting Dr Euphemia McGoogan this month to discuss implementation of the recommendations. Dr McGoogan, an expert in cervical cytopathology, will provide me with independent advice on the implementation.

"I believe New Zealand women can feel confident that the lessons from Gisborne are being learned," Mrs King said.

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