More than 46,000 people waiting longer than 18 months for vital scans

A growing population, more over-75s, and higher rates of cancer and heart disease in younger people is putting pressure on the health system

The Irish Cancer Society and opposition politicians are calling for even more investment in equipment and staffing.

New figures in the Irish Examiner today show that more than 46,000 people are waiting longer than 18 months for vital scans — what could be behind this?

These figures are from a National Treatment Purchase Fund (NTPF) pilot project gathering information on waits for CT scans, MRIs, and ultrasounds.