Guidance

Disclosing clinician actions checklist

Updated 20 October 2021

Applies to England

© Crown copyright 2021

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This publication is available at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/cervical-screening-disclosure-of-audit-results-toolkit/disclosing-clinician-actions-checklist

The following information is a suggested checklist of actions for the disclosing clinician during the process of offering of disclosure to an individual who has been diagnosed with cervical cancer.

The disclosing clinician should:

  • review the summary report provided by the cervical screening provider lead (CSPL)
  • arrange for an offer of disclosure letter and response form to be sent to the patient
  • log the patient’s response to the offer of disclosure:
    • if they decline disclosure, ensure the CSPL, treating organisation and patient’s GP are informed
    • if they want a reminder offer of disclosure in 6 months’ time, inform the CSPL, and arrange for a reminder offer letter to be sent in 6 months
    • if no response is received and duty of candour does not apply, ensure the CSPL, treating organisation and GP are informed
    • if no response is received and duty of candour applies, send a second offer letter
  • arrange for the appropriate disclosure letter to be sent if the patient has requested disclosure – letter A for no findings, letter B for findings (see letter template wording in the guidance on disclosure of cervical screening history review results and applying duty of candour)
  • arrange a timely appointment to discuss results if requested by the patient – this appointment should include:
    • attendance by appropriately training nursing support
    • having a suitable room booked for the appointment, and translation resources if needed
  • offer the patient a follow up call or meeting after the appointment in case they have further questions
  • send a summary of the disclosure meeting to the patient, their GP, the CSPL and the treating organisation
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