Onchan MHK Rob Callister has called on the Chief Minister to launch a comprehensive review of the Mandate to Manx Care.
He has said the changes to cancer screenings are an “insult to every woman on the Isle of Man over the age of 50”.
This follows building criticism over plans to reduce cancer screenings, among other cuts being proposed under the mandate set down by the DHSC.
In an open letter shared with Manx.News, Mr Callister said the mandate “reflects a “serious “represents a significant error in judgment” of the DHSC and its Minister Claire Christian.
Mr Callister said it is ‘imperative” that the only retain its current “gold standard” screening regime which has the support of cancer charities as “early detection saves lives.”.
He added: “Moreover, the Manx Breast Cancer Support Group has reported that approximately 120 – 130 patients are diagnosed with breast cancer each year on our island.
“These patients, raising over £10.2m to enhance both the patient experiences and treatment results for those facing a cancer diagnosis in our community.
“Consequently, the mandated direction by the Department of Health & Social Care to follow the recommendations of the UK National Screening Committee regarding screening programs for breast, bowel, and cervical cancers is, frankly, an insult to every woman on the Isle of Man over the age of 50.”
His constituency colleague Julie Edge is due to ask the Health Minister about the screenings tomorrow when Keys sit at 10am.
Meanwhile, a petition launched by Manx Breast Cancer Support Group has reached 3,100 signatures since Friday.






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