News release - Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre (RVH)
As Breast Cancer Awareness month kicks off, RVH is proud to announce the official opening of its newly upgraded Breast Imaging department equipment fleet which will enhance both cancer detection and patient comfort, creating an exceptional care experience for patients.
According to the Canadian Cancer Society, breast cancer is the most common cancer among Canadian women. There is a one in eight chance that a woman will develop breast cancer during their lifetime.
Early detection through regular screening is essential. The earlier breast cancer is detected, the greater the chance of survival.
With the installation of four new Hologic 3Dimensions Mammography units with advanced 3D technology (also known as digital breast tomosynthesis), RVH’s renowned Leading Regional High Risk Breast Imaging Program has elevated the breast cancer screening process. The innovative technology allows radiologists to look at the breast in ‘slices,’ improving chances of detecting breast cancer, while also reducing the likelihood of recalls for follow-up testing. It also offers higher-quality images for increased cancer detection.
“RVH’s Medical Imaging department is proud to offer new diagnostic and therapeutic equipment for women’s imaging,” says Dr. Drew Schemmer, Chief, Medical Imaging. “These leading-edge tools are paramount when affording lifesaving treatment that will directly impact our community and provide outstanding breast imaging services and cancer care.”
These machines also feature a curved compression surface which offers a more comfortable patient experience without compromising image quality, exam time or dose.
“Breast Imaging is a cornerstone of our Medical Imaging Program,” says Dr. Raj Grover, Medical Director, Medical Imaging. “A visit to this department is often the first experience that a woman has at RVH. We are fortunate to have state-of-the-art equipment which broadens the services that we are able to provide, as well as caring and professional staff who facilitate a welcoming and comfortable experience for the more than 20,000 patients we see each year from across our region.”
In addition to the four new mammography units, RVH has also acquired advanced biopsy equipment which allows patients to undergo diagnostic biopsy procedures while lying or sitting, allowing accessibility for all patients in the community. It also decreases the duration of the procedure allowing patients to spend less time under compression and provide a more positive biopsy experience.
“We are very excited to offer new technologies that allow RVH to continue to provide comprehensive and outstanding breast imaging services to the region,” says Dr. Scott Good, Breast Imaging Lead Radiologist, Medical Imaging; Regional Breast Imaging Lead, Simcoe Muskoka Regional Cancer Program.
RVH’s purchase of new equipment was made possible, in part, by contributions to the RVH Foundation from over 1,900 different donors.
Having access to the latest technology is a cornerstone of providing exceptional care.
With the support of MPP Andrea Khanjin, Barrie—Innisfil and MPP Doug Downey, Barrie—Springwater—Oro-Medonte, as well as operational funding from the Ministry of Health, RVH will soon unveil two additional pieces of equipment to better support care - a PET-CT opening later this fall and a third MRI set to be functional in 2025.
This commitment to enhanced access to diagnostic imaging will relieve some pressure on our healthcare system.
RVH’s plans to expand the current North Campus and build a new South Campus in Innisfil will ensure all who live, work and play in Simcoe Muskoka have access to world-class care when they need it.
Banner image captured by Barrie 360
