Canberra Health Services
Canberra Health Services provides various cancer services to help in the assessment, diagnosis, treatment and management of cancer-related illnesses.
These include:
- Cervical Screening
- Breast Screening
- Cancer Counselling
Cervical Screening
On 1 December 2017, the pap test in Australia was replaced with a new cervical screening test. Your first cervical screening test is due 2 years after your last pap test. After that, you will only need to have the test every 5 years if your results are normal.
If you are aged between 25 and 74, have a cervix and have been sexually active, you need a cervical screening test every 5 years. This includes those who have received the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine.
The test can be carried out by your GP, or a nurse or doctor at a community women’s health centre, family planning and sexual health clinic or Aboriginal Medical Service.
We understand the test can be an invasive experience, so if you feel more comfortable seeing a woman healthcare provider, ask about this when booking your appointment.
The following services also give cervical screening tests:
Sexual Health & Family Planning ACT (SHFPACT)
Level 1, 28 University Avenue
Canberra City
Phone: 02 6247 3077
Winnunga Nimmityjah Aboriginal Health Service
63 Boolimba Crescent
Narrabundah
Phone: 02 6284 6222
Breast Screening
Research shows that regular screening of women over the age of 50 reduces the number of deaths from breast cancer.
BreastScreen ACT is part of the national breast cancer screening program, which aims to reduce the amount of deaths from breast cancer through early detection. Detecting cancers when they are small can improve the chances of successful treatment and recovery and can result in better treatment options.
If you are a woman over the age of 40 and live in the ACT, you can get free screening and follow up services through the program.
BreastScreen ACT has three screening clinics in the ACT. For more information visit:
To book an appointment, phone 13 20 50 or send an email to breastscreen@act.gov.au.
Cancer Counselling
Living with cancer can be a stressful time and you may experience a range of emotional, social and psychological changes. Adjusting to these changes can be challenging for you, your family and friends.
Canberra Health Services cancer counselling service aims to support you and help you adjust to some of the common challenges you may face during your cancer journey.
They have a team of experienced social workers and psychologists who provide various individual or group-based services. They also provide information and referrals to other community services as required.
Their services are available to anyone over the age of 16 who lives or works in the ACT has been diagnosed with cancer. They also open up these services to the family members and caregivers of those suffering or have passed away from cancer or a cancer-related illness.
To access their services and make a booking, please see the Community Health Centres and the Canberra Region Cancer Centre which offers full services and support for you, your family and carers.
Cancer Council of Australia
The Cancer Council offers a range of services to support anyone affected by cancer. Find out information about cancer and what type of service and supports are available to you and your family. For more information visit Cancer Council of Australia please call 13 11 20.