How Are Pap Smear Results Reported?
Laboratories generally report Pap smear results to the doctor a few weeks after the test is performed. The doctor then
- calls the patient to notify her of her test results
- mails test results to the patient
- makes the results available to the patient upon request
Do not assume the test was normal if the doctor doesn't call or mail results.
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Need To Know:
A woman who has had a Pap smear should always know and understand her test results. Finding out what those results are can
- guarantee that the information isn't misplaced, disregarded, or overlooked
- prevent unnecessary treatment delays
- eliminate needless anxiety
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Nice To Know:
Laboratories hold onto Pap smear results for only three years. The patient may ask the doctor for copies of the test results. It may be useful to keep a file of test results so that they can be compared to later results.
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