Mobile mammogram exams available in Vermilion

As health continues to be a focus, women are being reminded to have an important exam.

Screen Test is offering mammograms in their mobile unit at the Vermilion Senior’s Centre until August 15.

“Early detection offers more treatment options and is the best way to survive an essentially terrible disease,” said Joan Hauber, Screen Test Manager.

“I know people are concerned about being in public or going to see their health care providers but if a woman wants to have a mammogram, precautions are in place. If they are reluctant or unsure, they can call us because we want to help make sure they feel safe, or they can talk to their family doctor.”

To keep clients and staff safe they have decreased the number of clients per hour, administer health assessments before they come on board including providing masks, sanitizer and temperature checks.

They have also installed plexiglass and administer proper cleaning between clients.

Clients have to call to register and are asked to stay in their vehicles when they arrive at the trailer and technicians will call them when ready to maintain social distancing.

Breast cancer is something you can find early before it has had a chance to spread. Hauber said they are trying to make sure everyone in Alberta can access mammography services.

“There are only a finite number of places it can be done. We want to make sure women in rural Alberta are not disadvantaged and can have the same access to services,” said Hauber.

She said they are screening women who are well and are non symptomatic.

“If you have to travel far or take time off work, it’s sometimes difficult to do that when you are feeling fine,” said Hauber.

Mammograms are essentially x-rays of the breasts. Four image views will be interpreted by a radiologist looking for any changes or areas that may look different than the rest of the tissue.

Their target population for mammograms is women aged 50 – 74, because at that age the tissue is less dense and cancers are easier to see, otherwise it’s recommended to talk to your doctor first.

They are no longer able to accept walk-ins so to call ahead and book an appointment you can call toll free 1-800-667-0604.

They will continue scheduling other locations in the region later this year and will return to each location again next year as well. For more information, you can visit screeningforlife.ca