Update on BreastScreen bus replacement

Additional transport options will be made available for Tasmanians living in regional and rural areas to attend Breast Screening appointments, following an updated timeframe for the replacement of the BreastScreen Mobile Screening Unit.

While the procurement process remains ongoing, the replacement bus is now expected to be back on the road in the next 12 months due to limited availability for the fit out of Mobile Screening Units across the country.

Minister for Health, Mental Health, and Wellbeing, Bridget Archer, said the Department has been instructed to do everything possible to expedite the replacement, noting the complexities involved with procuring a replacement.

“The importance of breast screening cannot be overstated, and the Government is committed to ensuring Tasmanians can access Breast Cancer Screening, no matter where they live," Minister Archer said.

“Patient travel assistance and additional transport options will be made available for those Tasmanians affected by this, including a partnership with cohealth to provide a free charter bus from the East Coast to Hobart early next month, with more to be scheduled as needed.

“Eligible Tasmanians and those who have previously registered their interest will receive communication directly from BreastScreen Tasmania informing them of times and locations of transport options and opportunities over the coming months.

"We are also progressing our commitment to deliver new permanent BreastScreen clinics at Kingborough, Devonport, Triabunna and Glenorchy, which will increase access even further."  

Additional appointment opportunities are also being made available at fixed sites in Launceston, Rosny Park and Hobart, and the Department is also working to establish an interim BreastScreen site in Devonport while a permanent site is being developed.

This will free up Mobile Screening Unit Ida from visiting the Devonport region, allowing it to be redeployed to other communities across the State.