HSE Promises Resolution for BreastCheck Registration Issues by Next Week

The Health Service Executive (HSE) of Ireland has announced that it will resolve the issues affecting the BreastCheck registration process by the end of next week. This comes after several women reported difficulties accessing their registration details, which raised concerns about their eligibility for breast cancer screening.

The HSE acknowledged that women who attempted to self-register for BreastCheck earlier this year faced challenges in viewing their information. In a statement issued in response to queries from the media, the HSE reassured women that their details are indeed on the register, even if the system does not currently display the correct information.

The BreastCheck register comprises individuals invited to undergo free breast screening tests. According to the HSE, most eligible women are automatically added to the register through data provided by the Department of Social Protection. However, some may have outdated contact information, or they may not be on the register at all.

For women who have not previously participated in breast screening in Ireland, the HSE advises checking their registration status and ensuring that their contact details, particularly mobile numbers, are up to date. Women aged 48 and above can check their registration, but invitations for screening typically begin at age 50.

In an updated communication sent to the media, the HSE emphasized that the majority of women do not need to self-register for the BreastCheck program. The organization is aware of the specific challenges faced by those who self-registered between February and August 2023 and confirmed that while their details are on file, they may not be accurately reflected in the online system.

Women who self-registered during this period and provided a mobile number can expect to receive a text message in early September to confirm their registration and provide information on how to view their details online. The HSE has dedicated a team to address the technical issues and anticipates that the situation will be rectified by September 5, 2026. The organization plans to update the public once the problem is resolved.

For those with questions about their status on the register, the HSE has encouraged contacting them via email at [email protected] or by calling 1800 45 45 55.

BreastCheck offers screening for breast cancer every two years to women aged 50 to 69, either at clinics or through one of 24 mobile screening units. Invitations for the first screening are generally sent within two years of a woman’s 50th birthday, with mammogram results typically delivered within three weeks.

It is important to note that cancer screening services are designed to identify the disease in individuals who do not display symptoms, facilitating earlier treatment to reduce mortality rates. Women experiencing symptoms of breast cancer or other types of cancer are urged to consult their general practitioner rather than relying solely on screening services.