GHC Offering Free Cervical Cancer Screening Clinics for Individuals Without a Primary Care Provider

SAULT STE. MARIE – March 5, 2025 – In partnership with the Algoma Ontario Health Team (AOHT), Group Health Centre (GHC) is offering free cervical cancer screening clinics to individuals without a primary care provider. These clinics will be held on Friday, March 21, 2025, and Friday, March 28, 2025, at GHC’s 773 Great Northern Road location. Appointments are available:

• Friday, March 21: 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
• Friday, March 28: 8:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

As part of an ongoing initiative supported by AOHT, these clinics aim to improve access to cervical screening for individuals who may otherwise struggle to receive this critical preventive care. “Regular cervical screening is essential for early detection and prevention of cervical cancer, yet many individuals face challenges accessing this care,” said Nurse Practitioner McDowell at GHC. “By hosting these clinics, we’re helping ensure that those without a primary care provider have an opportunity to stay on top of their cervical health.” The Ontario Cervical Screening Program recommends that anyone with a cervix—including women, transmasculine, and non-binary individuals—who has been sexually active receive a Pap test every three years starting at age 25. A Pap test is the most effective method for detecting early cell changes that could lead to cervical cancer. Cervical cancer is highly treatable when caught early. Routine screening helps detect human papillomavirus (HPV)—the leading cause of cervical cancer—as well as abnormal cells before they can develop into cancer. Early detection significantly reduces the risk of cervical cancer and improves survival rates.

How to Book an Appointment:

• Individuals without a primary care provider can schedule an appointment by calling 705-759-7465.
• GHC patients or those with access to GHC’s Access Care Clinic who need cervical screening should contact their healthcare provider’s office directly to book an appointment.

• Community members who have a primary care provider outside of GHC and are due for a cervical screening are encouraged to contact their provider’s office to schedule a test.

For more information about cervical cancer screening and eligibility click here.

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