Breast Units

units for diagnosis and breast cancer treatment

Abstract

The concept of a globalized world is everywhere. In mastology the idea of organizing network services, with high technological and quality protocol is coming true. The European Society of Mastology, in 1998, began the process of registration of Breast Units, aiming to determine minimum parameters related to high level for diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer, with minimum quality criteria, susceptible to certification, and quality programs. There are currently 137 full members, 26 certified, distributed in 44 countries, mostly in Europe. In Brazil there are six centers, with only four full members, but no center has the EUSOMA certificate, since the absence of organized mammography screening according to the European quality standard. Likewise, aiming the formation and refinement of programs of minimum attendance, the American College of Surgeons, in 2005, initiated the organization of the National Accreditation Program of Breast Centers. Nowadays there are 28 standard programs with re-certification process every three years. The 365 centers have minimum parameters of quality and they also use programs related to the different medial specialties involved. In Brazil, there are 74 centers registered on the Brazilian Society of Mastology, but there are no regular certifications. The network organization of Breast Units, evaluated according to the technological organization, associated with quality control programs, grouped by certification and re-certification process are the goals to be considered in which the great beneficiary will be the woman.