South Bruce Grey Health Centre’s Walkerton hospital site is set to receive a new Seno Pristina Digital Mammography System from GE Healthcare, this fall.
The equipment features modern technologies that will allow for potential program enhancement, including tomosynthesis, which provides a 3D anatomical view and contrast enhanced mammography (the injection of X-ray dye, through an IV, to highlight blood vessels), replacing the current equipment that has been in place since 2008.
The total project cost of $485,000 supported by the Walkerton & District Hospital Foundation.
The new equipment was ordered in July 2021 and is expected to be installed in September and operational in early October 2021. The mammography suite in Walkerton closed Aug. 24 to allow for construction to enlarge the current space to accommodate the new equipment. During the construction period, mammograms will be scheduled for patients at Kincardine hospital.
The Kincardine mammography machine was installed in 2013, and won’t be up for replacement for at least two years.
“We sincerely appreciate the ongoing support of the Foundation and the community,” says Michael Barrett, SBGHC president and CEO. “The Foundation’s significant contribution to purchase a new mammography machine will ensure that SBGHC can continue to provide this important service for the Walkerton community and surrounding area.”
The mammography program at the Walkerton hospital supports both the Ontario Breast Screening Program and the Breast Assessment Program, performing over 2,000 mammograms annually.
The Ontario Breast Screening Program provides routine screening for women between the ages of 50-74, across 160 locations in Ontario. Women can book their own appointment, regardless if they have a family physician, and are reminded by mail when they are due for their next screening. Both the participant and primary care provider receives screening results. The program will help to set up further testing if required.
The Breast Assessment Program provides follow up testing for patients with concerning mammograms. Patients are called back for further mammographic images, an ultrasound and a biopsy if required. Radiologist reviews images same day and will offer a biopsy if needed.