Debate contribution: Cancer: Diagnostic Tests: Waiting Times

Debate contribution by Mr Mike Nesbitt on 29 June 2026.

MLA: Mr Mike Nesbitt
Party at the time: Ulster Unionist Party
Date: 29 June 2026
Type: Debate contribution (made as a minister)
Business: Oral Answers to Questions
Heading: Cancer: Diagnostic Tests: Waiting Times
Assembly identifier: Official Report component 5644775

Text

Significant action is being taken to increase capacity across diagnostic imaging and endoscopy services, which are central to many cancer pathways. Recent management information shows encouraging progress. Between 31 March and 11 June this year, the number of patients waiting more than 28 days for a suspected cancer diagnostic test reduced by 41%, falling from 1,452 to 852. Variation between trusts has also been reduced. That has been supported by regional approaches to service delivery. Regional endoscopy centres in the South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust and the Western Health and Social Care Trust are treating suspected cancer patients from across Northern Ireland, while rapid diagnosis centres in the Northern Health and Social Care Trust and the Southern Health and Social Care Trust are providing regional cancer imaging services and helping to reduce variation across a number of cancer pathways.

141 words. Text as published by the Northern Ireland Assembly.

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