Cancer Screening Programmes

Wednesday, 8 October 2014

Questions (122, 124, 125)

Michael Healy-Rae

Question:

122. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Health if there has been any risk assessment regarding the use of digital mammograms; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38391/14]

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Michael Healy-Rae

Question:

124. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Health if there is a safety statement that has been issued regarding digital mammograms; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38404/14]

View answer

Michael Healy-Rae

Question:

125. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Health if there is or was a conflict of interest regarding the matter of the head of the Health Service Executive and BreastCheck being the same person; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38405/14]

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Written answers

Minister for Health

I propose to take Questions Nos. 122, 124 and 125 together.

BreastCheck utilises digital mammography as it is the most advanced method available, giving enhanced image quality and significant reductions in the radiation dose associated with screening examinations.

Information regarding manufacturers' manuals and safety data for digital mammography equipment is included as part of the BreastCheck tendering process. Quality assurance processes and measurements are a vital aspect of the BreastCheck programme and their ‘Guidelines for Quality Assurance in Mammography Screening’ is available from the publications section of the BreastCheck website. These guidelines are consistent with those of the European Reference Organisation for Quality Assured Breast Screening and Diagnostic Services which is the EU standard.

The National Screening Service operates three population based cancer screening programmes: BowelScreen, BreastCheck and CervicalCheck and is an integral part of the Health and Wellbeing division of the HSE. The Screening Service reports through the Office of the Director of Health and Wellbeing to the Director General of the HSE. There is no conflict of interest in this reporting structure.