The Ontario Breast Screening Program (OBSP) is a comprehensive organized breast cancer screening program. Its mission is to reduce mortality from breast cancer by delivering high quality breast screening to Ontario women between the ages of 50 and 74. Service is provided through dedicated breast screening centres, affiliate sites in hospitals and independent health facilities, as well as a mobile coach in northern Ontario. OBSP has been in operation since 1990 and is operated by Cancer Care Ontario and funded by the Ontario Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care.
Patients can be referred to the OBSP by their doctor or they can self-refer. Patients who do not have a family doctor or an Ontario Health Card are also eligible for the program and can make their own appointments. There is no cost to the patient for the breast screening service through the OBSP.
Women eligible for screening in the OBSP include:
- Ontario residents
- 50 years of age and over
- no acute breast symptoms
- no personal history of breast cancer
- have not had a mammogram within the past 12 months
- no history of breast implants
The Ontario Breast Screening Program offers:
- mammography
- information on breast self-examination
- a reminder to return for screening
A mammogram is a safe, low-dose x-ray picture of the breast. The x-ray can find small breast cancer lumps that might not be felt with fingers. The radiologist (a doctor with special training to read and interpret x-rays) looks at the x-rays and decides if there are any concerns.
The OBSP screens women 50 years of age and over and automatically recalls clients until the age of 74. Clients over the age of 74 are encouraged to consult with their family physician about continued screening. Appointments may be booked through the OBSP; interested persons should call Groves at 519-843-2010 ext. 403.