Vow to extend BreastCheck initiative threatened

A Government commitment to extend free breast screening to women aged 65 to 69 in 2014 looks threatened by a shortage of radiographers and the ban on staff recruitment.

Ann O’Doherty, lead clinical director with BreastCheck, said about 20 additional radiographers would be required to staff the extended service.

As it is, BreastCheck is struggling to fill approximately 16 vacant radiographer posts. Dr O’Doherty said these posts had been sanctioned and about eight radiographers were due to take up positions shortly. “It was quite a big deal to be allowed recruit in the current environment,” she said.