As the work continues to train and recruit medical radiation technologists, sonographers, and radiologists specializing in breast imaging, the provincial government and the Saskatchewan Health Authority has announced an extension to allow some patients to receive diagnostics in Calgary at Clearpoint Health, a private clinic. A government news release says the service began in November of 2023 and has been extended to March of next year as a temporary measure to accelerate urgent diagnostic procedures, significantly reducing wait times for urgent breast biopsies, bringing them in line with the clinically recommended target of three weeks or less.

Patients who are eligible and willing to travel to Calgary will receive their diagnostic services based on their urgency. Those needing urgent care will receive priority access, within Saskatchewan or at the Calgary facility, depending on availability. For those who go to Calgary, travel and accommodation expenses to a maximum of $1,500 are available for the patient and a support person. So far, 472 patients have had their diagnostic procedures done in the private Calgary clinic.

Other initiatives to enhance care include the construction of a new Breast Health Centre in Regina, phased expansion of breast screening eligibility to those aged 40 to 49, which began this year, adding capacity in Saskatoon and Moose Jaw, 3D breast imaging, and implementing a new breast tumour localization ‘seed” technology, which means fewer delays and cancellations, and less discomfort for the patient.