Patients face delays in getting urgent appointments for breast cancer checks

ONE in five patients in urgent need of assessment for breast cancer is not being referred for evaluation within the required two-week timeframe.

Patients face delays in getting urgent appointments for breast cancer checks

The longest delays occurred at Dublin’s Mater Hospital, according to an analysis of referral times for the first seven months of the year.

Figures contained in a Health Service Executive (HSE) report show just over half (615 out of 1,155) of patients attending the Mater, who were urgent referrals, were offered an appointment within two-weeks. Failure to accommodate patients within this timeframe is a breach of standards set down by the Health Information and Quality Authority (HIQA).

Already a subscriber? Sign in

You have reached your article limit.

Unlimited access. Half the price.

Annual €120 €60

Best value

Monthly €10€5 / month

More in this section

Lunchtime News

Newsletter

Keep up with stories of the day with our lunchtime news wrap and important breaking news alerts.

Cookie Policy Privacy Policy Brand Safety FAQ Help Contact Us Terms and Conditions

© Examiner Echo Group Limited