Breast cancer patients on the Isle of Man are facing delays in diagnosis and treatment due to a critical shortage of breast radiologists.
Health Minister Claire Christian confirmed today in response to an urgent question from Julie Edge (Onchan).
Manx Care has struggled with a vacant breast radiologist post since June 2024, relying on locum cover. The unplanned absence of the current radiologist since March 31 has exacerbated delays, with performance against the 28-day faster diagnostic standard dropping to 59% for breast-related referrals.
Ms Christian stated: “The absence of a substantive breast radiologist has led to delays in diagnostics.”
Approximately 30 patients had appointments cancelled this week, with biopsies rescheduled after a three-day delay. The average waiting time for a first outpatient appointment now stands at 29 days, exceeding the target.
Recalled
Ms Edge, who disclosed her personal experience as a patient, raised concerns and asked Ms Christina to confirm whether patients who should have seen a breast radiologist and didn’t would be recalled.
Ms Christian replied that affected patients had been contacted, with clinics rearranged.
Mr Lawrie Hooper questioned urgent referral times, to which Ms Christian clarified, “As of April 7, we are anticipating just over four weeks, which is 29 days.”
Ms Edge pressed: “What if the radiologist doesn’t return in four weeks?” The minister acknowledged recruitment challenges but assured contingency plans were being explored, including a potential second post.
With 67 patients awaiting first appointments, pressure on services remains high but Manx Care has recruited a new breast radiologist, expected to start early summer, subject to standard processes.
The minister emphasised ongoing scrutiny of cancer performance, but the situation underscores the fragility of specialist healthcare on the island.
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