The digital technology significantly decreases the amount of time required to complete the mammography examination. Digital imaging units will provide faster, more efficient mammograms and greatly improve the quality of the breast imaging service.

“We are very pleased this new technology is now available on the Island as it will greatly enhance our efforts to improve the breast screening program for Island woman and reduce wait times for breast imaging,” said Health Minister Doug Currie. “Digital images can be obtained within a few seconds and do not require a wait time for films to be developed. Images can also be sent electronically for interpretation.”

The new digital units were made possible through the dedicated fund-raising efforts of the PCH Foundation and the QEH Foundation.

“We have been anxiously awaiting the arrival of digital mammography at PCH and we are pleased to be moving in the right direction for women and their battle against breast cancer,”said Heather Matheson, managing director, PCH Foundation. “Having access to new technology is so important and, thanks to our donors and their overwhelming support, we are part of this good news story for women.”

“On behalf of the Queen Elizabeth Hospital Foundation, I am pleased to learn that the two digital mammography units for the Queen Elizabeth hospital have been ordered and will be installed soon,” said Barbara Smith, Chair of the QEH Foundation. “A great deal of effort has been put into fundraising for these units and they will have a huge impact on Island woman and families.”