Introduction to NHS Waiting Times

Some patients marked as red flags for breast cancer reviews are waiting up to seven weeks to be seen in Northern Ireland. The goal, determined by Northern Ireland’s Department of Health, is to have these patients seen within 14 days. However, the current waiting times are causing frustration and disappointment among patients.

Concerns Over Waiting Times

Judith Mullan, a nurse from Cookstown, visited her family doctor after discovering a lump in her breast. She was red-flagged for an appointment but was told she would have to wait at least eight weeks. Judith decided to go private and was able to get an appointment in Dublin within three days. She feels "frustrated" and "disappointed" by the NHS waiting times, which she believes are having a negative impact on her mental health.

Regional System for Breast Cancer Treatment

A new regional system for breast cancer treatment was introduced to address the waiting times. However, some breast cancer consultants are concerned that the waiting times are spiraling out of control. The system has been criticized for creating a postcode lottery, where patients are seen faster or slower depending on their address. Before the system was introduced, health trusts managed their own referrals for red flags.

Impact on Patients

Mary O’Hagan from Maghera in County Londonderry was red-flagged for a breast cancer evaluation after discovering a hot red spot on her right breast. She was initially told the waiting time was two weeks, but she is now expected to wait eight or nine weeks. Mary said her current situation feels "stressful" and is worried about the impact of the waiting times on her health.

Response from Health Department

The Department of Health said it recognizes that the total waiting time for those waiting for breast cancer assessments is too long and acknowledges the stress and fear this can cause. The department has received recurring funding of £5 million to increase the core capacity of health and social care trusts. The aim is to improve access to timely and adequate care, and the department will continue to monitor the situation carefully.

Unacceptable Waiting Times

The new red flag initiative was launched in response to "unacceptable" waiting times for breast cancer services in Northern Ireland. The aim was to enable people from all health trusts to access the earliest available appointment, regardless of where they live. However, not all patients can make the trip or attend a weekend appointment, and some health trusts were better equipped to manage their lists than others.

Efforts to Improve Waiting Times

The Department of Health said the regional approach aims to reduce waiting times and improve fairness, but it does not shorten the waiting time itself. The department is working to improve the use of existing capacity and has received funding to increase the core capacity of health and social care trusts. The goal is to provide timely and adequate care to patients, and the department will continue to monitor the situation carefully.