Routine Care & Wellness

Can I question my doctor about the quality of the laboratory that will examine my Pap smear?

• What is the name of the laboratory and where is it located?
• Is the laboratory accredited? Is it ever inspected?
• Do you (the physician)have good communication with the pathologist at the laboratory where my Pap examination will be evaluated?
• Can I see a copy of my Pap examination report? Will you explain the results to me?
• Will the laboratory inform you if my cell sample is not adequate for study so another sample can be taken?

If the laboratory that your doctor uses is not accredited, you can request that your Pap examination be sent to an accredited laboratory.

Source:

This information about Pap examination is used with permission and courtesy of the College of American Pathologists.