Waiting times for urgent referrals of women with suspected breast cancer to Cork University Hospital (CUH) have improved in recent weeks, according to the HSE.

However, the CUH breast service is currently minus one surgeon post.

The HSE's performance stats had reported a 'very significant deterioration' in performance for urgent referrals to the CUH breast cancer service in July.

Only 39.2% of urgent referrals were seen within the targeted timeframe of 10 working days during that month.

The delay was due to capacity issues as well as 'less than optimal management of annual leave arrangements.'

The HSE told irishhealth.com that in August, the situation had improved, with over 90% of urgent patients seen within 10 working days.

It said currently within the CUH breast service, there was a vacant consultant surgeon post and in July, there were some unplanned leave requirements which required reorgansiation of clinics.

Other breast cancaer clincs around the country currnetly have a 100% rate for referrals within the 10 working days target time.