No, the changes do not reduce the number of referrals into secondary care. Those whose tests show the presence of HPV and no cell changes are followed up every year, and if HPV continues to be present, they are referred into secondary care (colposcopy) on their third such result, even if no cell changes have been identified. If individuals have cell changes then they will continue to be referred directly for colposcopy, as they are now.
After the first 3 years following the extension of the screening intervals for those under 50, there will be fewer women attending for routine screening per year. However, those at higher risk will be brought back more often so that they can be monitored more closely. Although this is not a cost saving exercise, by default, there may be some savings for the NHS in the longer term due to those at low risk no longer being screened more often than needed.