Healthcare Info

Going for a Cervical Cancer Vaccination

Hibernian Aviva Health is delighted to be the first health insurer to provide cover for cervical cancer vaccination. This pioneering benefit is aimed at helping our members to take even greater control of their health. Whether it's you or a loved one, you'll be delighted to know that this benefit isn't about the now; it's all about the future. We bet you've a lot of questions already so read on to find out more

Why should I get it?

The cervical cancer vaccine is really important because it safeguards against cervical cancer, which is the second most common form of cancer for young women between 15 and 44 years of age. All sexually active women are at risk of cervical cancer which is caused by the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) of which there are over 100 different types.

Vaccination guards you against the most common cancer causing types of HPV; HPV 16 and HPV 18 which are responsible for 70% of cervical cancer cases. The vaccine works by stimulating your immune system to provide additional protection against infection without the need to experience the disease or its symptoms.

Is this for me?

Cervical cancer is a common virus which 8/10 women will come into contact with at some point in their lives. So if you've ever had a sexual relationship you could be at risk whatever your age. You can take control of health by getting the cervical cancer vaccine and going for regular smear tests. It's the best defense you give yourself against cervical cancer.

Women from 12 years of age and upwards can receive the cervical cancer vaccine; being vaccinated at a young age can give a girl the best chance at reducing the risks into the future.

So just how good is it?

The cervical cancer vaccine has a 99% success rate against the HPV 16 and HPV 18 types of the virus. As these are responsible for 70% of cervical cancer cases, screening is still absolutely vital for early detection and in safeguarding against the other 30%.

Why get vaccinated so young?

Being vaccinated at a young age allows a girl's immune system to be set in motion long before she's becomes sexually active and likely to encounter HPV. It works best here as it allows for the highest antibody levels, the greater the antibody levels the greater the protection. Since antibody levels fall once you stop getting a vaccine, it makes sense to start with high levels to get the greatest protection for the longest time - years, decades even.

In saying this, although HPV is common among sexually active women most haven't had all the types covered by the vaccine, which means that it's not too late to avail of this added protection.

Finding the right words

The cervical cancer vaccine is available for females aged 12 and upwards. We know that it may be difficult to find the right words when speaking to your daughter about cervical cancer at the young age of 12. It's vital to remember that this benefit isn't about the now, but the future and protecting your daughter as she goes through her 20s and on.

Does it hurt?

Well not really! The cervical vaccine involves a series of 3 injections over a 6 month period. Some may experience side effects such as redness or swelling or mild pain where they receive the injection but this only lasts for a short period of time. Those getting the injection will have one at 0, 1 and 6 month intervals. Don't worry; we'll help you remember the dates/times of your next appointment by sending you a handy text reminder for every step you take.

I'm interested. So what do I do?

Hibernian Aviva Health is the only health insurer in Ireland to offer this pioneering benefit. We believe prevention is better than cure and that's why we've arranged with Point Of Care Health Services to provide Cervical Cancer Vaccinations to Hibernian Aviva Health members at a discounted rate.

The cost of a course of treatment is €490 with members of Hibernian Aviva Health receiving a €150 rebate once the course has been completed. To make the vaccination more readily assessable there is also an easy payment option of €49.50 per month for a period of 10 months.

Members of Hibernian Aviva Health and members of the public can make an appointment for a course of treatment at any of the Point Of Care centres nationwide by calling 01 499 2674.

The vaccine is given in 3 doses at 0, 1 and 6 month intervals. At the first appointment the two follow up appointments will be booked. Hibernian Aviva Health members can pay up front or in installments.

There are no waiting periods so you can book in as soon as you join. Call 01 499 2674 to make an appointment at any of the Point of Care centres nationwide. The vaccination is available at 6 Point of Care centres in Dublin as well as in Cork, Kildare, Waterford and Galway

How to claim for your cervical cancer vaccine

At Point Of Care Health Services you'll be given a claim form to complete once you have paid for your vaccination. They will send us this form and we'll you a cheque for €150 in return.

The cost is tax deductible. You can claim some of it back on a Form MED 1, which is available on the Revenue website: Download med 1 form

More Information

Cervical cancer: The facts
Going for a smear test

If you have any concerns about cervical screening and/or cervical canceryou cancall the National Cancer Helpline Freefone 1800 200 700 (open Monday - Thursday 9am - 7pm and Fridays 9am - 5pm).