Written answers
Thursday, 8 February 2018
Department of Health
Cancer Screening Programmes
Ruth Coppinger (Dublin West, Solidarity)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
238. To ask the Minister for Health the waiting times for breast check; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6642/18]
Ruth Coppinger (Dublin West, Solidarity)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
239. To ask the Minister for Health if he will increase the frequency of breast check in all areas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6643/18]
Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
I propose to take Questions Nos. 238 and 239 together.
The latest published waiting time figures (2015/16) for BreastCheck, the national breast screening programme, are provided as follows:
| Screening Programme | % | Target |
|---|---|---|
| Women re-invited for screening within 24 months of invitation at previous round | 63.50% | ≥90% |
| Women re-invited for screening within 27 months of invitation at previous round | 94.40% | N/A |
| Women eligible for screening invited for screening within 2 years of becoming known to the programme | 92.10% | ≥90% |
The current approach of two yearly intervals is considered to be the safest and most effective approach for a population-based breast screening programme. This frequency is evidence based and is used in many other European countries. There are no plans for change in this regard.
No comments