Delays in cancer treatment appointments blamed on lack of staff

Radiation therapists Niall Treacy and Siobhan McCarthy, with clinical specialist radiation therapist Aisling Ryan posing as patient, at the cancer centre in Bon Secours Cork. Picture: Gerard McCarthy

Cancer patients are facing delays in accessing vital treatment because of a national shortage of radiation therapists.

The HSE said the shortage is now so severe that leading cancer doctors are meeting weekly to find solutions, including offering more overtime to staff.