When it comes to protecting your health, preventive screenings play a vital role. One of the most important screenings for women is the Pap smear, which checks for abnormal cervical cells that could indicate precancerous changes or cervical cancer. Many people assume this test can only be done by a gynecologist, but that’s not always the case. If you see a primary care doctor for routine health needs, you may be wondering: Can my primary care provider perform a Pap smear? The answer is yes, and in many cases, it’s a convenient and effective option for your ongoing care.
At AFC Urgent Care Denver City Park, we provide same-day primary care visits for individuals and families in the City Park Denver neighborhood. We offer convenient and affordable primary care services Monday through Friday. Walk in or plan your visit in advance below!
What Is a Pap Smear and Why Is It Important?
A Pap smear is a simple, routine procedure that collects cells from the cervix to detect any abnormalities early. The test is recommended for most women beginning at age 21 and is usually repeated every 3 to 5 years, depending on age, health history, and whether it’s combined with an HPV test. Getting regular Pap smears is one of the best ways to prevent cervical cancer, since early detection gives you more treatment options and better outcomes. Skipping this screening can delay diagnosis and allow abnormal changes to progress unnoticed.
Can a Primary Care Doctor Perform a Pap Smear?
Yes, many primary care providers are trained and experienced in performing Pap smears as part of comprehensive women’s health care. Some urgent care centers, including AFC Urgent Care Denver City Park, also provide primary care. Pap smears are offered alongside our other general gynecological services, including contraception counseling, IUD removals, and menopause hormone therapy. Having your Pap smear done by your primary care doctor offers several benefits:
- Convenience: You can often schedule the test during your annual wellness visit, avoiding the need for a separate gynecologist appointment.
- Continuity of Care: Your PCP already knows your medical history, which helps them interpret results in the context of your overall health.
- Early Detection Within Routine Care: Instead of waiting months for a gynecologist appointment, your primary care provider can ensure you stay on schedule with screenings.
When Should You Still See a Gynecologist?
While primary care providers can perform Pap smears, there are situations where a referral to a gynecologist may be recommended. For example:
- If you have a history of abnormal Pap smear results that require specialized follow-up testing
- If you need advanced gynecological procedures or treatments beyond routine care
- If you’re dealing with complex reproductive health issues, such as severe endometriosis or infertility concerns
That said, for most routine screenings and preventive women’s health needs, a primary care doctor or primary care-focused urgent care center is fully equipped to help.
Get Same-Day Primary Care Services at AFC Urgent Care Denver City Park
A Pap smear is a simple but essential test for protecting your reproductive health, and you don’t have to wait for a gynecologist appointment to get it done. Many primary care doctors, and urgent care centers with primary care services, are able to perform Pap smears as part of your regular wellness visits. This makes it easier to stay up to date with important screenings while receiving care from a PCP you already trust. If you’re due for a Pap smear or have questions about other women’s health services, schedule a visit with a PCP at AFC Urgent Care Denver City Park. Our center provides primary care services to all patients in the greater Denver, CO area– including RiNo, North Denver, and Central Park. We accept most health insurance plans and provide cost-effective options for self-paying patients. If you have any additional questions about the primary care services we provide, please call us directly at (303) 381-1100.
