Public patients are waiting up to 25 times longer for cancer tests than those going privately.

A new study by Irish Cancer has found some public patients are waiting up to 480 days for an ultra sound.

Health Editor with the Sunday Business Post Susan Mitchell says although things are bad, there has been a positive development recently.

“Although we are seeing a report today, funnily enough, on waiting times patients are experiencing and the huge chasm between public and private.

“The National Cancer Control program has been a very good development and that has streamlined care for patients across the country,” Mitchell said.