The HSE’s breast screening programme will resume on Tuesday 27th October, it has been confirmed.
The screening programme was paused seven months ago due to the Covid-19 outbreak.
BreastCheck units will resume screening from next week and invitation letters will be sent first to those who had their appointments cancelled in March. Invitations for routine screening will follow. Donegal’s BreastCheck unit is located in Letterkenny on the grounds of the Public Services Centre.
Local campaigners with Donegal Action for Cancer Care have warmly welcomed the resumption of BreastCheck services.
DACC Betty Holmes said: “DACC have kept the pressure on since March regarding this very important service. Those who are waiting longest since March will be called first.
“In line with safety there will be a new system which will ensure everyone is kept safe.
“DACC continue to work hard and are proud of all our work in a voluntary capacity, and we do work hard.”
A number of changes have been made to BreastCheck in light of the pandemic: BreastCheck will reduce support for symptomatic services as screening increases. Mobile vans and static units have been upgraded to meet infection control and physical distancing requirements.
The HSE also said that capacity will be reduced due to social distancing and potential limitations due to Covid-19. A new text management system will be in place to maximise appointment uptake.
Information on BreastCheck is available on www.breastcheck.ie
