Service gaps force HSE to delay radiation therapy for 880 cancer patients beyond approved time

Radiation therapy is a key part of cancer care and is delivered at specialist centres. File photo: iStock

Almost 900 cancer patients did not start radiation therapy on time this year, with more than €90m spent since 2020 on sending public patients to private centres for radiation therapy due to gaps in public services.

Questions were asked about plans to upgrade machines, including in Cork, during the Oireachtas Health Committee on Wednesday. Radiation therapy is a key part of cancer care and is delivered at specialist centres.