Residents of Montserrat can now access vital mammography services at Glendon Hospital’s radiology department.
Licensed physicians in Montserrat including Ministry of Health medical officers and private physicians can now submit medical referrals for mammography services.
Mammograms are specialised x-ray examinations of the breast, used primarily for the early detection of breast cancer in women.
They serve as both a screening tool for asymptomatic individuals and a diagnostic tool for those with symptoms.
According to a press release from the Ministry of Health and Social Services on 4 November, all of the island’s physicians have received comprehensive resources on the available services.
These included updated screening guidelines in keeping with best international practices, referral forms and patient information sheets.
Once a physician has submitted a referral to a patient, they are encouraged to contact the Medical Records Department at Glendon Hospital to schedule appointments.
The department will also provide detailed information about fees associated with the service. Payment is required prior to the appointment.
Those in need of financial support can request assistance from their physicians so that the appropriate application can be made through the office of the chief medical officer.
Chief Medical Officer, Dr Sharra Greenaway-Duberry said the rollout is the result of the hard work and dedication of many individuals committed to delivering high-quality care to the community.
She thanked the health ministry, the Project Management Office, the Governor’s Office, Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, and other healthcare partners and stakeholders.
“We are also deeply appreciative of the public’s patience and support as we prepared this service for launch,” she added.
“It’s our goal to offer every Montserrat resident accessible, comprehensive care and this new service is a powerful addition to that mission.”
A blessing ceremony was held in September to mark the completion of refurbishment works at the former Margetson Memorial Home and the purchase of hospital equipment including the mammography suite.
A few weeks late, esteemed radiologist Dr Sundeep Shah paid a visit to Glendon Hospital to help the radiology team prepare for the rollout of mammogram and CT scan services.
