Abstract

VELASCO, Sofia et al. Availability of mammography services in Colombia. rev.colomb.cancerol. [online]. 2014, vol.18, n.3, pp.101-108. ISSN 0123-9015.  https://doi.org/10.10167j.rcc.2014.06.001.

Objective: To determine the availability of mammography services at national level targeted at women between 50 and 69 years, as well as to report on the availability of these services within and outside the area of residence. Methods: The Integrated Information System on Social Protection (SISPRO, in its abbreviation in Spanish) was chosen as the source of information to develop an appropriate research study. The rate of places providing mammography services per 10,000 women aged 50 to 69 years was calculated. This information was then displayed on maps. Finally, an estimation of was made of the proportion of women who received the service related to the place of residence. Results: Nationally, an average rate of 5.4 centers providing mammography services per 10,000 women aged 50 to 69 years was observed, with a maximum of 9.6 and a minimum of 0 services per 10,000 women aged 50 to 69 years. It was observed that around 23% of Colombian women had to travel from their department of residence to use the mammography service, with a maximum of 100% and a minimum of 3%. Conclusions: There is a heterogeneous distribution of mammography service delivery. Some departments completely lack mammography service facilities. The population reported in those departments had to travel from their department of residence to receive the service. Determining the availability of mammography services has the aim of finding out the status of the mammogram services offered, and to focus resources to improve access to mammography services, which have a direct impact on health outcomes.

Keywords : Breast cancer; Health Services; Screening; Health Services Statistics.

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