Northern Ireland's breast cancer assessment waiting times have improved to five weeks and two days, down from a peak of 12 weeks in September 2025. Health Minister Mike Nesbitt announced the figures for the quarter ending December 2025.

The data shows 3,902 patients received specialist assessment after urgent referral, up 44.6% from 2,699 in the prior quarter. Referrals rose to 6,658 from 6,194 over the same period.

Nesbitt attributed gains to a new regional breast assessment service that assigns patients the first available slot at any site across Northern Ireland. He expects waits to keep falling toward a 14-day target.

Additional weekend and evening clinics contributed to the progress. Overall, 90.1% of cancer patients, or 2,965 individuals, began treatment within 31 days of a treatment decision, compared to 88% or 2,499 previously.

Nesbitt stated the department provided 5 million pounds in recurrent funding under the Elective Care Framework. The funds support a consultant-led breast assessment model with skilled practitioners.

He recognised that some women still experience long delays and pledged continued support for reforms.