BreastScreen Aotearoa recalls no longer required by general practice

With the introduction of the new national BreastScreen Aotearoa system, Te Puna, general practices are no longer required to undertake breast screening recalls for eligible patients.

The new national database now manages invitations and recalls centrally. Eligible participants are automatically invited to enrol and attend screening, with the programme operating on an opt-off basis rather than requiring people to opt in. This creates a more consistent national approach while reducing the administrative burden on general practice.

What this means for general practice

General practices continue to play an important role by:

• encouraging eligible patients to participate in regular breast screening

• supporting informed conversations about breast screening

• referring patients with breast symptoms for appropriate diagnostic assessment, as BreastScreen Aotearoa is intended for people without symptoms.

Thank you for your continued support in promoting breast screening and helping improve early detection for your patients.

For the latest information about the programme, visit the BreastScreen Aotearoa page on the Te Whatu Ora Health New Zealand website.