Maximising round length in a large National Health Service breast screening unit

Within the National Standards for Breast Screening is the objective to ensure that women are recalled for screening at appropriate intervals.

The Manchester Breast Screening Unit has utilised the ability to specify batches from the health authorities in a specific order, to maximise the call and recall system for women eligible for primary screening.

The minimum standard for the criterion of the percentage of eligible women whose first offered appointment is within 36 months of their previous screen is ≥ 90%. Using the computer program has maximised the appointment scheduling, but in addition has derived benefits to the Commissioning Primary Care Trusts. The appointment timescales, offering women screening on mobile vans, has enabled the Primary Care Trusts the opportunity to promote breast screening effectively to the eligible women who have failed to attend their first appointment. In low-uptake areas, this has facilitated the efforts to increase uptake to the national standard of 70%.