AI could transform breast screening: What it means for women in NZ
The Government’s recent announcement that it will explore the use of artificial intelligence (AI) to support breast screening services is a welcome and long overdue step forward.
We know that timely access to breast screening saves lives. Anything that helps more women access high-quality screening, sooner, is a positive move. With growing demand and ongoing workforce shortages, it’s encouraging to see momentum building around solutions that can strengthen and future-proof our screening programme.
Why AI in breast screening matters
International evidence is increasingly clear: AI can be a valuable support tool in breast screening. It works alongside radiologists, helping them analyse mammograms and flag areas of concern. It acts as an additional set of eyes – complementing, not replacing, clinical expertise.
Large-scale international programmes have already shown promising results. In Sweden, the MASAI trial reported that using AI in screening led to more cancers being detected at earlier stages, as well as a reduction in interval cancers (those diagnosed between routine screening appointments). Earlier detection gives women more treatment options and significantly improves outcomes.
The question is no longer whether AI can help detect more cancers. The focus now is on how to implement it in ways that are safe, effective and equitable.
Getting implementation right
Introducing new technology into the health system takes time and careful planning. Health NZ’s current exploration phase is an important first step.
New Zealand doesn’t need to reinvent the wheel. Other countries are already several years into implementing and evaluating AI-supported screening. We have the opportunity to be fast followers – learning from international experience, validating proven models with our own population, and ensuring the right workflows are in place to deliver safe and equitable outcomes for women here.
Equity must be central to this work. Any changes to screening services should improve access and outcomes for all women in Aotearoa, particularly those who currently face barriers to screening.
Supporting a stretched workforce
We are also facing a global shortage of radiologists, and New Zealand is not immune. Recruitment challenges continue to put pressure on our screening services.
AI has the potential to ease some of that pressure. By supporting radiologists in reviewing mammograms, it can help services manage increasing demand while maintaining high standards of care. This could play an important role in keeping breast screening sustainable and accessible for women across the country.
We look forward to seeing this work progress. Done well, AI could strengthen our screening system, support our health workforce, and most importantly, help detect more cancers earlier, giving more women the best possible chance of a positive outcome.