Somerset unveils new mobile breast screening units for quieter and efficient service
New scanning units enhance accessibility of breast screenings in Somerset
Two new state-of-the-art mobile breast screening units are set to enhance the accessibility of breast cancer screenings across Somerset.
These units replace vehicles that had been operational for nearly 15 years, often becoming costly and challenging to maintain.
The upgraded mobile units will travel across Somerset, ensuring screenings are brought closer to residents’ homes.
Deb Roan, a nurse formerly at the trust diagnosed with bilateral breast cancer in 2024, officiated the opening in Wells.
Deb has since become a vocal advocate for the national importance of early screening, diagnosis, and treatment.
Lesley Stephenson, Somerset NHS Foundation Trust’s superintendent radiographer, acknowledged the outdated condition and mechanical issues of the previous units, detailing the noise and vibration disturbances to patients being screened.
The advancements in the new units include a hybrid generator and battery system that significantly reduce noise and vibration during appointments.
Approximately 77,000 individuals, aged between 50 and 71 and registered as female with a GP in Somerset, qualify for routine breast screenings every three years.
The mobile units play a crucial role by providing screening closer to home, eliminating the necessity of long journeys to regional hospitals—a significant consideration given Somerset’s rural landscape and limited public transport options.
Dr Zoe Goldthorpe, director of Somerset Breast Screening, reinforced the intention to bring breast screening closer to home for eligible individuals, minimising disruptions to daily life.
Hannah Fitch-Goodwin, Somerset NHS Foundation Trust’s breast screening programme manager, explained the programme's emphasis on early detection and prevention, identifying potential issues before symptoms become evident.
"In the event of a potential concern being identified, individuals are recalled to Musgrove to consult specialist clinicians in the breast care unit, with treatment options offered at either Yeovil or Taunton," Hannah explained.
The new mobile scanning units cycle throughout east and west Somerset (excluding Frome, covered by Royal United Hospital Bath), over a three-year schedule to maintain regular community visits.
Moreover, the service accommodates individuals relocating into Somerset, ensuring their registration in the screening cycle.
Hannah highlighted the system's capability to flag individuals who move within the county or into Somerset, facilitating record updates to reflect their position in the screening cycle.
Furthermore, this initiative resonates with NHS's broader objectives to extend care within community frameworks.
Hannah remarked, "Through this transition, our work aligns with the NHS 10 Year Plan centred on prevention and community-focused healthcare."
Screening options remain available to those over the age of 71 through self-referral, while eligible transgender and non-binary individuals are encouraged to consult with their GP for programme inclusion.