"I had confidence in the information I was being given"

Following a recall for further breast screening after a routine mammogram, I spent a whole day at the clinic in Nelson Mandela Place in Glasgow.

They explained to me their areas of concern and showed me comparison mammogram pictures from three years ago and then from this year. I felt well informed about what they proposed to do by way of biopsies and the reason why these biopsies were needed. Staff were all very supportive and kind.

All the staffs' knowledge (consultants, radiologists, nurses and specialist nurses) was really good and the information that different people gave was consistently the same, so I had confidence in the information I was being given.

I had a discussion with some of the staff throughout the day about how accurate the information is given on the letter and leaflet sent out prior to attending the clinic in that it could be more direct and perhaps more honest. (The leaflet is an NHS Scotland Public Health publication and I appreciate not within the direct control of the clinic I attended). I understand though, that they wouldn't want to "scare" patients away with worst case scenarios, but had I had a better sense of how possibly traumatic (mentally and physically) the day could be, I would have definitely taken someone with me. As it was, I attended on my own.

Language used in the recall letter stated "your images are unclear" when in fact they were clear and raised concerns. I think it's probably ok to say something like "we need to take more images for the purpose of clarity." At least then, I as the patient would have given more consideration to the idea that I may need to take support.

Although the information leaflet says that there may be some bruising following biopsy, I was in no way prepared for the extent of this (and today, 24 days later, I am still very badly bruised). Even if it's not explicit in the leaflet, maybe prior to leaving the clinic when the breast care nurse is doing a final check, a bit more info about what to possibly expect in the event of significant bruising would have been helpful.

On returning to the clinic for my biopsy result some 10 days after my initial visit, unfortunately I did receive a breast cancer diagnosis. This outcome though could not have been delivered in a more supportive and empathetic way. The staff were outstanding!