The Tasmania Government is doing everything possible to ensure a replacement Breastscreen Mobile Screening Unit is back on the road as quickly as possible.
Minister for Health, Mental Health and Wellbeing, Bridget Archer, said the importance of breast screening cannot be overstated and the Government is committed to ensuring Tasmanians can access Breast Cancer Screening across the State.
"The replacement process for the new bus is ongoing, with design and planning now finalised with Varley Group and critical infrastructure now arriving to support the construction," Minister Archer said.
"The most recent advice I have received has indicated that delivery will be completed by December 2026.
"This is extremely disappointing and I have made it very clear to the Health Department that all options must be considered to either bring this timeframe forward, or explore what other options there are to get a replacement bus back on the road sooner.
"I met with Varley Group and had a positive discussion around potential options to fast-track the build and I have also written to other States and Territories to ascertain options to purchase an existing bus, should one be available.
"This would add another bus to the existing schedule and not only assist in prolonging Ida's lifespan – which will also need replacing in coming years, with initial procurement processes already underway - but also future-proof against any further issues, such as mechanical or equipment failure.
"Given the importance of this matter, I have requested the Secretary have direct oversight of the ongoing process to ensure everything possible is being done."
Additional interim solutions are also being progressed, with a BreastScreen site in Devonport at the Community Health Centre to open next month. This will free up Ida from the Devonport region, where it delivers approximately 5,500 screenings per annum, to other communities.
The Department of Health is also continuing to support eligible Tasmanians living in rural and remote locations to access breast screening through a temporary client travel subsidy, and since being implemented, uptake has been positive, with over 500 applications approved to date.
The Government is also boosting access through our election for four brand-new BreastScreen clinics, that will make it easier for women to access these services closer to home and complement the permanent clinics already available in Hobart, Rosny, and Launceston.
