We’re committed to improving the cancer screening rates across the district with a focus on improving Cervical, Bowel and Breast screening rates where we currently fall below NSW state average.
Key Cancer Screening Programs
Cancer Screening rates (cervical, breast and bowel) are a National Headline Indicator for Primary Health Networks (PHN’s).
Evidence has shown that primary health care can have a significant impact on improving screening rates.
Key focus areas of PHN cancer screening activities are:
- Developing partnerships with primary care providers, clinicians and community.
- Supporting and enhancing primary care system capacity and capability through quality improvement initiatives.
- Enhancing Clinician skills and knowledge.
Population-based cancer screening programs can be an effective means to identify cancers in people with no symptoms, allowing early treatment and a reduction in illness and mortality.
The Primary Care Cancer Control Quality Improvement Toolkit supports healthcare providers in enhancing cancer screening practices, focusing on early detection and prevention. It offers resources including step-by-step guides, templates, and tools to improve patient engagement and practice performance. The toolkit, combined with resources from the Cancer Institute NSW, helps practices implement evidence-based strategies for better cancer care.
For more details, visit the Cancer Institute NSW Toolkit and Resources and Tools.
The National Cancer Screening Register (NCSR) manages data for Australia’s bowel and cervical cancer screening programs, helping healthcare providers track patient participation, submit results, and update records. It integrates with clinical management software including Best Practice and Medical Director, streamlining workflows and supporting improved cancer detection and care.
For more details, visit NCSR Healthcare Providers webpage or download NCSR Provider toolkit.
For Breast Screening, GPs can complete the BreastScreen NSW Data Request Form.
The National Lung Cancer Screening Program (NLCSP) officially launched on 1 July 2025, offering low-dose CT scans to help detect lung cancer early in high-risk adults aged 50–70 with a 30 pack-year smoking history, aiming to detect lung cancer early and saves lives.
Access the National Lung Cancer Screening Program – Healthcare Provider Toolkit
Designed to support you in delivering the program effectively, with links to CPD-accredited education, provider resources, and patient communication tools.
Key aspects:
- Referral: GPs refer eligible patients for low-dose CT scans using request form or via RTF forms in Best Practice (NLCSP Low-dose CST scan request) and Medical Director (NLCSP Low-dose CST scan request). Visit HealthPathways Lung Cancer Screening page.
- Eligibility: Adults aged 50–70 with a 30 pack-year smoking history. QI tip: Maintain accurate smoking histories in clinical records to improve patient identification. Leverage Pen CS CAT4 audit tools to build a patient register:
- Identify patients eligible for lung cancer screening (A) – Patients aged 50 to 70 who are daily smokers, irregular smokers, or ex-smokers, and who have no diagnosis of lung cancer.
- Identify patients eligible for lung cancer screening (B) – Patients aged 50 to 70 with a history of smoking, and no diagnosis of lung cancer.
- Create Topbar prompts
- National Cancer Screening Register Integration:
- Integrate with the NCSR (Best Practice, Medical Director, Communicare).
- Alternatively, use the Healthcare Provider Portal via PRODA.
- Delegate access for non-GP staff.
- Enrolling eligible patient: directly via Best Practice, Medical Director and Communicare, that are integrated with the NCSR. The form is also available through the NCSR Healthcare Provider Portal. User guides on how to use the NCSR and the various NLCSP forms are available on the NCSR website.
- Patient Education: GPs will need to educate patients about the program, its benefits, and potential risks. Patients are now automatically registered upon referral for a CT scan, reducing GP admin tasks.
- Smoking Cessation: Use this opportunity to offer brief advice and connect patients with cessation support.
- Educate Staff: Ensure your whole team understands the program.
For further information and assistance regarding NSCR programs, visit the NCSR website or call 1800 627 701.
If you’d like support with Cancer Screening programs, contact your Primary Care Delivery Officer or email our Virtual Support team at support@wentwest.com.au
The National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (NACCHO) have developed resources and posters for First Nations people. These resources are aimed at ensuring that the new National Lung Cancer Screening Program is equitable, accessible, and culturally safe for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and Communities.
Lung Foundation Australia have launched a dedicated helpline, designed to support enquiries about the National Lung Cancer Screening Program. The helpline offers free, confidential guidance from experienced nurses, helping Australians navigate lung cancer screening and take proactive steps toward early diagnosis and better outcomes.
Call 1800 654 301 (option 2) for lung cancer screening information and support or visit their website here
Progressing Health Now
Find out more about other Programs and Priorities for Western Sydney.
