Queries?

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A service run by women, for women

* Source: South East Essex Patient Satisfaction Survey 2009

How would you describe the service to a newcomer?

“NHS breast screening is a habit: once people start coming, they keep it up. We know that women appreciate having a local service that comes to them, but also, all of us working in the mobile units are of a similar age and we try to provide a service we’d want to use ourselves. We screen well women. If a women has any symptoms she shouldn't delay but go and see her GP regardless of whether she is due a screen or has just had one.”

What do women using the service tell you about their experience?

“Feedback from service users is really positive: ladies often comment on the speed of service and the size of the units - they’re bigger than people expect, but this is also because there are very few people in the units at one time. It’s quite a personal service, manned by two radiographers like me.” Ladies using the service often say to me they were dreading the screening, but having had the x-ray, say “it was nothing!”

Ann Jones, receptionist at Southend Hospital Breast Unit

Ann has undergone treatment for breast cancer in the past.

“I was diagnosed with breast cancer aged 50 and referred to Southend Breast Unit. I was in shock for the first four months. It was an extremely frightening time, but I have three daughters and felt I needed to keep it together for them.

I can’t say how much I like working here and being a patient – obviously I’d rather not be a patient, but if you have to be one, there’s no better place to be.

Everyone who works here cares deeply about each and every patient. The support is wonderful.

I’m 62 now and I feel lucky every year it doesn’t come back. I celebrate every birthday and make the most of my life, my children and grandchildren.”

What would you say to someone who is over 50 but not attending NHS screening?

“They must be mad! I survived because I was diagnosed early on. Prevention is better than cure. You have the option for free NHS check ups every three years…..why not take it?”

Would you like to share your experiences with other women from South Essex? Please give us your thoughts by using the link below to our feedback form, or alternatively you can contribute to our Facebook page.

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