Recalling women for further investigation of breast screening: women's experiences at the clinic and afterwards

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Abstract
Background In 1993–1994 about 66000 women in breast screening were called back (recalled) to a specialized centre for further investigation (assessment). The information requirements of these women during and after their appointment were investigated. Ninety per cent of recalled women were found not to have cancer. Methods Consecutive women (n = 2132) from eight breast screening centres throughout the United Kingdom were asked to complete a postal questionnaire two weeks after attendance at assessment. No reminder was sent. Results The response rate was 70 per cent. Communication was viewed by women as the most stress-relieving aspect of the recall appointment. Women from centres where nurses provided the opportunity to talk in private before further investigation were less likely to want to talk later about why assessment was needed for them (4 per cent) than women from centres not using a nurse for this purpose (30 percent)(pppConclusions Overall the quality of communication at assessment was viewed highly by women, but varied considerably between centres. There is scope for substantial further improvement. Breast care nurses can play an important role in this.

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