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Andalusia Mandates Same-Day Breast Cancer Diagnostics for High-Suspicion Cases Starting Today

Regional authorities set a February 28 deadline for full adoption under a standardized one-day pathway with centralized oversight.

Overview

  • The order covers BI-RADS 4 and 5 cases, bundling mammography, ultrasound and, when required, biopsy in a single visit to speed confirmation.
  • The Servicio Andaluz de Salud will apply the protocol across all public hospitals, directing Radiology and Breast Units and allowing review by the Directorate-General for Care and Health Outcomes.
  • Exceptions must be documented by radiology specialists and include patients needing anticoagulant preparation, stereotactic biopsies scheduled in specialized rooms, or patient-requested postponements.
  • Health Minister Antonio Sanz called the expansion of the existing 'single act' approach an important advance and said it will be guaranteed across 32 Breast Units.
  • The policy aims to cut uncertainty, improve care continuity and reduce travel, while hospitals reconfigure agendas and capacity to meet the new standard; advocacy group Amama criticized the exclusion of BI-RADS 3 cases.