To ask the Minister of Health what evaluation methods are in place to measure the effectiveness of breast screening uptake improvement plans or initiatives.

Effectiveness of uptake improvement plans and initiatives are measured through a review of the Breast Screening Programme uptake data. Uptake is monitored regularly by the Public Health Agency, on a quarterly and annual level. Where there are specific initiatives or interventions, uptake can be reviewed over specific timescales, or geographical locations.

The four Breast Screening Units in Northern Ireland each work to develop Promoting Informed Choice action plans with specific actions at local level. Local uptake improvement initiatives can be monitored internally by the Breast Screening Unit using data e.g. at GP practice level.

The uptake rate for routine breast screening in Northern Ireland, for those invited, meets the national acceptable standard of greater than, or equal to 70.0%, as set out in the NHS Breast Screening Programme screening standards.

Uptake rates for Northern Ireland since 2020, are as follows:

*Acceptable level: greater than or equal to 70.0%; Achievable level: greater than or equal to 80.0%.