The Health Minister has stated that she will not “currently” support any proposed changes to the frequency of breast screening.
The has been some controversy about screenings due to the language in the Manx Care mandate, which states that “Manx Care are asked to implement any recommendations made by the UK National Screening Committee, supported by the Department of Public Health Isle of Man. This includes decreasing the frequency of routine screening for breast and cervical cancer.”
Challenged on this wording in the House of Keys, Claire Christian insisted that no decision had been made, explaining that “the intention of this mandate in this specific area was to make aware that Public Health are responsible for bringing forward recommendations”
She added: “But that does not mean every single proposal will simply be adopted without full discussion.”
Interpretation
Pressed further, the minister told Keys that “the mandate really could be read in different ways,” a comment which drew laughs from members, but stressed that the department had not committed to changes.
She added: “Let me assure you, I will not support any proposed changes to the current breast screening frequency currently.” But did note that further scientific advances may change screening entirely in the future.
Some members questioned why the mandate was approved without scrutiny over its implications for cancer screening.
With Julie Edge, Tim Glover, Rob Callister and Lawrie Hooper all criticising the sincerity of the explaination, as well as the wording of the mandate and, not for the first time, the communications the government put out alongside it.
Review
A review of screening services is set to take place with Ms Christian confirming that “reviewing the current programmes against best available evidence is planned to be undertaken in the next 12 months by Public Health.”
There has been particular focus on breast and cervical cancer screening, with concerns that the review could lead to changes in screening intervals.
The minister clarified that “no financial evaluation has been done, as no recommendations have been made by Public Health to any changes to these services.”
She further assured members that any recommendations would be subject to full discussion before any action is taken.
Playing Politics?
Chris Thomas (Douglas Central) highlighted the significance of the issue and warned against the politicisation of healthcare.
He added: “This is far too important a matter, screening for breast cancer, screening for the other services, to actually be stirred up as a political issue for political purposes.”
Mr Thomas called for “considered debate” on the topic and urged members to focus on ensuring the best health outcomes rather than engaging in political point-scoring.
You can hear the full exchange below:
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