Ontario Breast Screening Program (OBSP) & Mammography

Our Ontario Breast Screening Program is located in the Diagnostic Imaging department on the 1st floor of the Hospital, and can be reached at 705-328-6175.

The Ontario Breast Screening Program (OBSP) was developed by Cancer Care Ontario in 1990 after careful studies indicated the importance, and illustrated the benefits of, breast cancer screening programs. Ross Memorial became an affiliate of the program in 1998 and today, there are approximately 395 visits per month. The Ontario Breast Screening Program provides a screening mammogram, which is a safe and effective way of detecting early problems. X-rays of each breast are taken and if there is any question, a follow-up appointment will be made.

It is recommended that women 50 years and older be screened every two years. Patients can book their own appointments or can be referred by their family physician. Ross Memorial Hospital will contact patients who have had a prior screening to book their follow-up appointments.

Eligible clients can self-refer for a mammogram in the Ontario Breast Screening Program (OBSP). An appointment can be self-booked online through MyChart.

Breast screening is very important in the early detection of cancer. If breast cancer is detected early, it is more likely to respond well to treatment and if treated, is less likely to spread. Women who are 50 years of age and older are encouraged to come to Ross Memorial for breast screening and if they have any questions or concerns about the procedure, staff are always willing to listen and provide information.

Mammography and RMH Breast Assessment Centre

Mammography examinations are only performed with an order from a physician. Appointments are available Monday-to-Friday during regular business hours. The Mammography desk can be reached at 705-328-6175 or fax 705-328-6188.

Mammograms are special X-rays of the breasts that require compression to delineate breast structures and reduce radiation. Patients must not wear perfume, powder or deodorants prior to having exam since the particles in these products will show up on the image. Screening Mammography involves taking 2 routine images of each breast. Occasionally, additional images are necessary to fully examine the breast.

The Mammography Department, including OBSP and Breast Assessment, is fully accredited by the Canadian Association of Radiologists.