No Breast Radiologist For At Least Three Weeks

After experiencing some ‘unexpected disruption’ Manx Care won’t have a Breast Radiologist for at least three weeks.

The health care provider had anticipated to have a Breast Radiologist in place at this time.

However, due to an emergency short-term absence, it will not have this member of the team in place for at least the next three weeks.

As Breast Radiologists play a vital role alongside other members of the Breast Team, the service is severely impacted by this staffing disruption.

No Smooth Running

Manx Care is holding extra clinics where it can, securing locum Breast Radiologists where possible.

It says that “systems will not be running as smoothly as we had originally hoped over the coming weeks”.

Two extra clinics were held last week to cover those whose appointments were due to take place earlier in the week.

This week, it has three extra clinics in place for patients, and are working to get two extra clinics in place for next week.

Shortage of Staff 

There is already a significant shortage of available Breast Radiologists within the UK, and Manx Care says its more difficult on island.

“We are very isolated on the island, which is quite different to the inter-connected environment of the UK, which makes it even harder for us to recruit someone suitable at short notice.

Manx Care.

“However, we are committed to finding a sustainable solution,” Manx Care added.

Patients

Every individual who is affected by this disruption has been contacted and notified.

Manx Care says it understands that this may be “distressing”, but would like to reassure the community that it is working hard to find both short-term and long-term solutions, and are keeping in regular contact with patients.

If you feel you may have a breast problem at this time, please contact your GP.

For further queries, or if you need more information/symptom advice, please contact the Breast Care Nurse on 01624 650194, or MCALS on 01624 642642.