The stress of having breast cancer is increased "tremendously" for women who have to travel to Dublin or Cork for treatment, according to a new report published by the Women's Health Council. One woman in eight has to wait for more than a month for her first appointment at a breast clinic.
The WHC is a statutory body which advises the Minister for Health and Children on all aspects of women's health. It is chaired by Ms Noreen Kearney, who said yesterday that eliminating delays in seeing a consultant and getting a diagnosis had emerged as a key area of concern.
Nearly two-thirds (62 per cent) of women interviewed said they got their first appointment at a breast clinic within two weeks of being referred by a GP. But a quarter (23 per cent) waited for up to a month and 12 per cent for more than a month.
Anxiety, sleep disturbance and feelings of panic were common among women between the time they were referred to a breast clinic and the time they got the first appointment.
The top priorities set by women interviewed were:
First appointment within one week of referral.
Having all diagnostic tests in one session, where possible.
Having any additional tests within one week.
Unhurried time to talk to consultants after test results.
Continuity of care - if second visit is required, assurance that woman will see the same breast nurse and consultant.