In France, there is what is called "Centres régionaux de coordination des dépistages des cancers" (CRCDC) - regional centers where patients are registered for screening programs and monitored. France has developed a functional system of cross-checking test results, which are simultaneously sent to the family doctor, the screening network doctor, and the radiologist within accredited screening centers. The patient will be monitored by all these links for better control of their health, and these key points are closely connected through an extensive information network.
In summary, the journey of a French patient begins with receiving an invitation to undergo screening tests they are scheduled for. With the invitation letter, they can go directly to the units responsible for conducting the tests (accredited collection laboratories), to the family doctor for the co-test (Babe?-Papanicolaou exam + HPV testing), or to an accredited radiologist's office for a mammogram. The screening results are simultaneously delivered to network doctors and family doctors, so a positive screening result cannot be missed.
In cases where the patient does not visit the doctor after receiving the letter, they will be notified a second time. Following the second refusal to participate in the screening programs, the patient will no longer be eligible for free tests.
The cervical cancer screening program recommends screening tests for women aged 25 to 30 every 3 years, after two normal tests conducted one year apart, and then every 5 years between the ages of 30 and 65. Screening is done through both the Babe?-Papanicolaou test and HPV testing. Regarding HPV vaccination, it is recommended for both girls and boys aged 11 to 14, with the possibility of completing vaccination up to the age of 19.
The breast cancer screening program is conducted every two years for women aged 50 to 74 and includes breast palpation and mammography. The interpretation of mammograms involves two radiologists to increase reading accuracy, in accordance with the quality standards for screening issued by the European Union.
The colorectal cancer screening program targets individuals aged 50 to 74 and involves immunological testing every 2 years. Testing kits are available both at the family doctor's office and at any pharmacy. In the case of a patient with personal history, symptoms, or risk factors for cancer, they will be directed directly to a gastroenterologist.