HSE was aware of US lab issues with smear tests in 2007

The HSE was aware of issues around the testing of cervical smear samples at labs in the US as far back as 2007, when a consultant pathologist in Cork University Hospital sought a review of samples that were given the all clear, despite patients being at risk of cervical cancer.

The company in question, however, later secured a contract for cytology laboratory testing for the national cervical screening programme.

Over a decade ago, a medical industry newspaper reported concerns at CUH over the testing.