Breast screening is a team activity and success depends on leadership and team work from all participants.  At any given stage in the pathway, only part of the team is involved, but few boundaries are rigid and co-operation and understanding is vital.  This team approach cannot be achieved passively; rather it requires an ongoing effort.

The provision of an expert multidisciplinary team and the provision of a quality breast screening service requires specific key roles which are considered mandatory.

These roles are detailed in this section of the website. The requirements of each role in relation to the specific responsibilities, professional standards, continuing professional development (CPD) and quality are specified. All professional requirements should be included in job descriptions and be subject to performance appraisals.

Mandatory roles include:

Breastcare nurses

Health promoters

Medical physicists

Medical radiation technologists

Pathologists

Quality co-ordinator

Radiologists

Surgeons

The BreastScreen Aotearoa Lead Provider, subcontractors and ISPs must maintain an up-to-date list of all personnel filling mandated BreastScreen Aotearoa roles within their region.

The BreastScreen Aotearoa provider may choose to provide additional expertise in addition to the mandatory roles listed above in order to meet specific needs of women receiving their services.

It is a requirement that all staff undergo culturally consumer focused training, for example, Well Women Customer Service.

Further information regarding BSA workforce roles and responsibilities is available in the BSA National Policy and Quality Standards: