Pat Lee, Executive Director for the Queen Elizabeth Hospital (QEH) confirmed today that the hospital’s two mammography (breast screening) units have received provisional accreditation from the Canadian Association of Radiologists (CAR). He noted, “Physicians and staff have been working diligently to resolve the issue of dust particles on the mammography films, and we are pleased to see validation of our efforts and confidence in our program by the Canadian Association of Radiologists.”
Arlene Gallant-Bernard, Executive Director for the Prince County Hospital (PCH) confirmed that the mammography (breast screening) unit at PCH has also been granted provisional accreditation.
Mr. Lee noted, “Films from mammography equipment at the QEH and PCH were forwarded to the CAR last Friday and reviewed by a panel of three radiologists, a medical physicist, and a radiation technologist. All three Island units were granted provisional accreditation and are working with CAR to maintain ongoing accreditation of the PEI Breast Screening Program.”
Mr. Normand Laberge, Chief Executive Officer of the Canadian Association of Radiologists noted that, “CAR encourages women to be confident that early and diagnostic testing for breast cancer is effective on PEI and confirms that PEI Radiologists and Technologists have been performing to National Standards.”
The PEI Breast Screening Program is provincial in scope and our goal is to maintain the accreditation of the service at both the QEH and Prince County Hospital (PCH). There are two mammography units at the QEH and one at the PCH.
The accreditation process is voluntary in PEI and involves more than just the assessment of the mammography equipment. The CAR also assesses the qualification and training of personnel and quality of images being produced.
Mrs. Gallant-Bernard noted, “We have a common vision with CAR to maintaining an accredited breast screening program here on PEI.”
Mr. Lee added, “We are very pleased to receive this latest accreditation status from CAR. The most important thing is that Island women can be confident when booking breast exams in knowing that their mammograms are safe, effective and follow national standards.”