How is the ThinPrep® Pap Test™ different from the conventional Pap smear?

In a conventional Pap smear, cells are scraped from the cervix and smeared directly onto a slide in the physician’s office. With a ThinPrep® Pap Test™, the cells are obtained in the usual manner but are then placed directly into a collection vial containing a fluid preservative. This new method allows more of your cells to be sent to the laboratory, where state-of-the-art equipment optimizes preparation quality. In the laboratory the ThinPrep® processor separates the cells from unnecessary material, such as blood and mucus. The cells are transferred onto a slide in a uniform, thin layer that makes it easier to interpret.

Why should you ask for the ThinPrep ® Pap Test ™?

Because it may save your life! The ThinPrep® Pap Test™ is the first improvement to the Pap smear in 50 years. Your doctor will obtain cells from your cervix during your gynecologic examination in the usual manner. The difference is in the way the cells are collected, preserved and processed in the laboratory. This enables the laboratory to process a higher- quality slide for interpretation, providing you with a more accurate result.

Can you request the ThinPrep® Pap Test™ as part of your routine checkup?

Yes. Just check with your doctor’s office in advance so that the appropriate collection materials will be available.

Is there proof that the ThinPrep® Pap Test™ is more effective?

Studies involving thousands of women have indicated that the ThinPrep® Pap Test™ increases the detection of precancerous cells. In a recent study the ThinPrep® Pap Test™ was credited with more than doubling the detection rate of precancerous conditions, as compared with the conventional Pap smear.
*Archives of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, September, 1999

What if your test results indicate you may have a problem?

Just as with a conventional Pap smear, the majority of ThinPrep® Pap Test™ results are normal. If a problem is detected, however, your doctor will determine the best treatment or follow-up plan for you. It is important to remember, that if detected early, cervical cancer is almost 100% curable! That’s why it’s important to have an annual pelvic examination, including a ThinPrep® Pap Test™.

Will my insurance pay for the ThinPrep® Pap Test™?

Many insurance carriers, such as Prudential, Cigna, United Healthcare, Aetna and Blue Cross Blue Shield, have added full coverage for the ThinPrep® Pap Test™ to their benefits package. Although many insurers do cover the ThinPrep® Pap Test™, healthcare plans vary across the country. Check with your insurer to verify coverage.

Why did your physician choose AmeriPath as your healthcare partner?

AmeriPath, Inc., specializes in gynecologic pathology. This special area of testing includes both tissue biopsy and Pap test interpretation. Our pathologists are uniquely qualified to assist your physician with the prevention, early diagnosis and treatment of cancer. Your doctor has selected AmeriPath because of the exceptional quality and service we provide. We have taken steps to ensure that we provide both your physician and you with an accurate, timely result.