Concern over suspension of Mayo mammogram services 

A decision to temporarily suspend mammogram services at Mayo University Hospital (MUH) has been branded “pathetic”.

There are major concerns following confirmation that the service has been suspended due to the recent retirement of the hospital’s radiographer.

Minister of State Alan Dillon said he has received numerous representations from constituents in Mayo worried about the impact this service disruption will have. He has made formal representations to the HSE on the matter and has also contacted the office of the Minister for Health Jennifer Carroll-McNeill.  

“This is a deeply regrettable situation for Mayo patients who rely on Mayo University Hospital for vital mammogram services. Equality of access to healthcare is a fundamental right, and Mayo people deserve the same standard of timely care as anyone else in the country," said Minister Dillon.

The HSE has confirmed that, in the interim, all mammogram appointments are being transferred to Galway, and that recruitment of a new radiographer has already been completed, with the successful candidate due to begin in early 2026. Efforts to secure a temporary replacement in the meantime are continuing.

"The people of Mayo deserve fairness and equality of access to healthcare services. I will continue to do all I can to ensure mammogram services are restored to Mayo University Hospital without delay,” Minister Dillon added.

Independent councillor Michael Kilcoyne said with five TDs in the county this situation should never have been allowed to occur.

“This represents a further downgrading of the health services in Mayo,” said Cllr Kilcoyne. “It’s pathetic. We have five TDs, including two Ministers, and they aren’t doing anything. They should be on to the Minister for Health asking why is this happening.”

Cllr Kilcoyne said patients are only learning of the situation when they are receiving an appointment moving their treatment to Galway. He said he will raise the issue at the next HSE Health Forum.