'Shocking' data shows cancer patients face postcode lottery for timely treatment

University Hospital Waterford and Cork University Hospital among six facilities showing regional inequalities in 'shocking' Irish Cancer Society data

'Behind every cancer delay statistic is a patient and their loved ones, and these delays mean avoidable deaths,' the Irish Cancer Society policy manager said. File picture: iStock

Some cancer patients have faster access to vital treatment and surgeries than those in hospitals in other regions, “shocking” data released by the Irish Cancer Society shows.

The figures also show hospitals are hitting target times for certain cancers, but they are struggling to meet targets for others, indicating gaps internally as well as regionally.