You can support the best care experiences, close to home.
At St. Joe’s, breast screening is about more than a mammogram. It’s about having access to the right technology, timely follow-up, and support to help patients navigate what comes next.
Donor support has helped transform the Geoffrey H. Wood Foundation Centre of Excellence in Breast Cancer Screening and Treatment, expanding the space, bringing in advanced imaging technology, and creating a more comfortable, private environment for patients. These improvements come at an important time, as demand for breast screening continues to grow following Ontario’s expansion of routine screening eligibility to include people aged 40 to 49.
“With new technology, our patients do not wait as long for a diagnosis, and they can move to the next step in their care sooner,” says Rhonda Gannon, the operations lead for mammography. “As a result, we are consistently meeting Cancer Care Ontario performance metrics for ensuring patients have access to timely biopsies and follow-up imaging, if needed.”
The Garron Foundation and other donors have helped fund the technology and equipment that support this work. One example is advanced tomosynthesis, or 3D mammography, which gives radiologists more detailed images to assess. This can help reduce the need for patients to return for additional imaging when results require further review.
St. Joe’s also offers MRI-guided breast biopsies for patients who need this specialized procedure to determine whether a suspicious breast abnormality is benign or malignant.
The Centre’s calming environment is another important part of the patient experience. “Many are surprised by how calming and peaceful it is here. Hospitals can be busy and loud, but it feels different here,” says Rhonda.
Patients who need support beyond a routine mammogram can also turn to Shital Maisuria, the Centre’s Patient Navigator. She helps patients understand their next steps, navigate follow-up care, and find answers to their questions.
“I am here to make the process less stressful for patients. Coming in for a routine mammogram or receiving an abnormal result can be frightening. I am here to guide them in their next steps and to keep them informed throughout the journey,” says Shital.
With the support of donors, expanded spaces, advanced imaging technology, and a dedicated patient navigator, St. Joe’s is continuing to respond to the growing need for breast screening while supporting patients through the next steps of their care.
