Responding to a reported rise in the number of women who have not had breast screening since services restarted, NBIA Programme Lead Dr Mary Wilson said:
“The biggest challenge to fixing the screening backlog and expanding breast services is the workforce shortage. Recognising this, we have established the National Breast Imaging Academy (NBIA) which is funded by Health Education England and hosted by Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust. Over the last three years it has worked collaboratively with breast training centres across the country, who, despite the pressures of the pandemic, have continued to prioritise training wherever possible.
“Significant progress has been made, with over 120 new mammography associates now in training and the establishment of 50 new medical training posts. However, to provide sustainable breast centres and staffing levels for the future, ongoing investment is required to support additional trainees and their clinical trainers.”