Failsafe batches: are we optimising their effectiveness for both the screening service and the woman?

In order that women continue to receive an invitation for screening at 3-yearly intervals when they move locations around the United Kingdom, screening services initiate 'Failsafe' batches at 3-monthly intervals or less. Currently there is a variety of practice in the specification of these failsafe batches within the NHSBSP, and variations in appointment booking practice associated with these batches.

The National Co-ordinating Group for Administration and IT in Breast Screening is reviewing these practices with the aim of producing national guidance on the most effective approach, both in terms of accessibility and acceptability for the women involved and cost-effective resource management for the service.

This poster outlines the results of the review and documents the key points in best practice.