Ruth Coppinger
Question:238. Deputy Ruth Coppinger asked the Minister for Health the waiting times for BreastCheck; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6642/18]
View answerDáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 8 February 2018
238. Deputy Ruth Coppinger asked the Minister for Health the waiting times for BreastCheck; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6642/18]
View answer239. Deputy Ruth Coppinger asked the Minister for Health if he will increase the frequency of BreastCheck in all areas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6643/18]
View answerI 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.