Borders MSP, Rachael Hamilton, has highlighted the success of NHS Border's breast screening services as figures show it is performing well above the national average.
Figures released last week showed that almost 8 in 10 women who were eligible for breast screening attended appointments over the last 3 years in the Borders, despite the pandemic. The 78% uptake was the highest in 10 years.
Ms Hamilton praised NHS Borders staff for continuing to deliver this often-lifesaving service through one of the toughest periods in the history of the NHS.
She added that although 100% uptake will no doubt remain the health board’s goal, they should be proud of the work they have done to increase uptake across the region over the last few years, outperforming all but one of the mainland health boards.
Rachael Hamilton MSP said:
“Breast screening services are helping us detect the UK’s most common cancer in women early. It is absolutely vital that we attend these screening services when we are invited to do so.
“Recent figures have shown that the uptake of these services in the Borders has been excellent. It is fantastic that so many Borderers taking this issue seriously and attend their appointments when invited.
“However, this success also comes down to the hard work of our NHS Borders staff, who continue to go above and beyond to deliver these services.
“It is clear that, despite the challenges NHS Borders has faced over the last few years, prioritising key services like breast screening has remained at the top of the agenda. This is reflected in the figures released last week.
“I know that NHS Borders staff will be striving to reach 100% uptake across the region, and I absolutely commend this. But they should also be very proud of the work they have done to maintain the current levels of uptake in appointments.”
