Prioritising Women’s Health at Duality Healthcare
At Duality Healthcare, women’s health is at the heart of what we do. Led by Dr Karen Kiernan, our dedicated team is committed to delivering a trusted, patient-first approach to local healthcare—making it easier, quicker, and more compassionate for women to stay on top of their wellbeing.
Cervical Screening: Why It Matters
Cervical screening is one of the most important preventive tools we have against cervical cancer. Yet for many women, the idea of booking a smear test feels like something that gets pushed down the to-do list.
Whether it’s embarrassment, anxiety, or just not knowing what to expect, this hesitation is entirely normal. But understanding the process and its importance can help make it feel less daunting—and far more empowering.
At its core, cervical screening is a quick and straightforward procedure that checks the health of your cervix. It’s not a test for cancer itself but rather for early changes that could become cancer over time. By detecting these changes early, treatment can be offered before anything more serious develops.
Understanding HPV Testing
In Northern Ireland, most cervical samples are now also tested for the human papillomavirus (HPV)—a common virus that most of us will contract at some point. While HPV often clears naturally, certain strains can cause changes in the cervix that increase the risk of cancer.
If HPV is found in your sample, your cells will be looked at more closely through cytology (a microscope-based test) to check for early signs of change. If no HPV is found, you’re very unlikely to have any abnormal cells, and your results will usually come back as normal.
At Duality Healthcare, we offer both HPV testing and cytology analysis, giving you peace of mind with faster, clearer results.
Why Delays Happen—And How We Help
It’s no secret that delays in cervical screening results have become an issue across Northern Ireland. This backlog can cause anxiety, especially when women are left in limbo, waiting for answers.
That’s where we come in. At Duality, we’re committed to offering a local, reliable alternative. Our goal is to get your results back as quickly as possible—because your health is too important to be left waiting.
A Supportive Screening Experience
We know the idea of a smear test isn’t always comfortable. That’s why our appointments are delivered with care, sensitivity, and respect.
Our team genuinely cares about your experience. We take time to explain what’s happening, put you at ease, and help you feel comfortable—whether it’s your first appointment or your fifth.
There’s no rush, no judgment—just support.
When Should You Book?
Women aged 25 to 64 are invited for screening every 3–5 years depending on age and previous results. But if you’re due—or overdue—now is the time to act. Screening saves lives, and it’s as simple as that.
So please—prioritise your health. Book that appointment. You’re worth it.
Book With Us
To learn more or book your screening appointment with Duality Healthcare, visit:
👉 www.dualityhealthcare.com
Or call your nearest clinic:
- Newry: 6-8 Savages Terrace, BT35 6AT | Tel: 028 3083 3666
- Galgorm: Units 21 & 22, The Courtyard, BT42 1HL | Tel: 028 3083 3666
- Omagh: 27 Campsie Road, BT79 0AE | Tel: 028 3083 3666
