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As a medical imaging provider, Mayfair Diagnostics is committed to providing our patients with the very best imaging experience possible. An important part of this process includes addressing any questions or concerns our patients may have.
We often receive questions from our patients about radiation safety during medical imaging, so we created this infosheet to illustrate how radiation from medical imaging compares to other sources of radiation exposure. Below we’ve also answered some common questions about this topic.
At Mayfair, we use two types of electromagnetic radiation to produce images of your body. The first type is X-rays, which are used in several of our exams, including:
During these procedures X-rays are passed through your body and some of them get absorbed. The X-rays not absorbed create the image, while those that are absorbed contribute to your radiation dose.
The second type of electromagnetic radiation, gamma rays, is used by nuclear medicine imaging. Gamma rays are introduced intravenously (in the form of a radiopharmaceutical) and emit outward to the detectors. These rays can also be combined with CT imaging, which uses X-rays, to produce very detailed images of your body.
All exposures of radiation are held to the standard of ALARA (as low as reasonably achievable) for all medical imaging exams that involve radiation. This means that no or low exposure is best, and the risk-benefit ratio should always be considered.
Radiation dosage is measured in millisieverts (mSv). When talking about the risks of radiation exposure, we are referring to possible side effects, such as the chance of developing cancer later in life. If medical imaging is recommended, your doctor will consider the benefits of an accurate diagnosis and compare it to the small risk of radiation exposure This chart from the Radiological Society of North America compares approximate background radiation levels and effective radiation doses in adults for common radiology procedures.
Health care governing bodies have created guidelines to ensure patient safety is a priority. Health care practitioners are encouraged to order X-rays only when necessary, and only when the benefit outweighs the small risk of exposure.
At Mayfair, we take each patient’s history to help us understand the reason for the exam and evaluate any potential risks. For exams with higher potential radiation exposure, our technologists check patient histories for records of previous imaging and coordinate with a radiologist to confirm the specific number and type of images. Lead shielding is also available to cover vulnerable areas of the body.
During each patient appointment, we make sure that patients understand the purpose of their exam, that we have their consent, and that consent is based on a true representation of the benefits and risks of each procedure.
For more information about the procedures offered at Mayfair Diagnostics clinics, please visit our services page.
Canadian Association of Medical Radiation Technologists (2021) “Communicating Risk and Benefit.” CAMRT Member Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct. Accessed July 27, 2021.
Canadian Association of Medical Radiation Technologists (2021) “Minimizing Patient Exposure.” CAMRT Member Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct. Accessed July 27, 2021.
Radiological Society of North America (2020) “Is diagnostic medical radiation safe?” www.radiologyinfo.org. Accessed July 27, 2021.
Radiological Society of North America (2019) “Radiation Dose in X-Ray and CT Exams.” www.radiologyinfo.org. Accessed July 27, 2021.
Radiological Society of North America (2019) “What is radiation dose?” www.radiologyinfo.org. Accessed July 27, 2021.
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At the heart of everything we do is a belief that every image tells a story—and every story deserves care.
At Mayfair Diagnostics, we provide state-of-the-art medical imaging that helps patients and physicians get the clarity they need to make informed decisions about health. From routine check-ups to complex diagnoses, our role is to deliver answers with compassion and accuracy.
We offer a full spectrum of imaging services, including:
MRI, CT, and X-Ray for advanced diagnostic insight
Ultrasound and Mammography for preventative and women’s health
Nuclear Medicine, Bone Density, and Cardiac Imaging for specialized care
Pain Management and Interventional Procedures to improve quality of life
But our work extends beyond exams and equipment. As the largest teleradiology provider in Western Canada, we connect urban, rural, and remote communities with expert radiology services—ensuring access to care when and where it’s needed most.
We also partner with local organizations, sports teams, and community groups to keep people healthy and active. From professional athletes to families booking their first screening, our commitment is the same: timely results, advanced technology, and compassionate care.
To improve lives with clarity, compassion, and care—one focused image at a time.
But numbers only tell part of the story. What truly defines us is our culture of compassion. We’re a team of caregivers, innovators, and problem-solvers who share a commitment to excellence. Whether supporting frontline care, developing new technology workflows, or guiding a patient through their appointment, we approach our work with empathy and integrity.
At Mayfair, you’re not just part of a company—you’re part of a community. Together, we’re shaping the future of health care, making advanced imaging accessible, and creating a workplace where people feel valued, supported, and inspired to grow.
WHO WE ARE. WHAT WE DO. Why we’re more than a workplace
At Mayfair Diagnostics, we’re caregivers, nurturers, creators and thought leaders—deeply rooted in a passion to help people. We deliver meaningful work, compassionate care, and an environment where every team member can thrive.
Key Points:
Founded on over a century of excellence in medical imaging.
Owned and operated by 50+ radiologists, supported by 400–640+ employees across clinical, technical, administrative, and support roles.
Operating 17 locations across Alberta, Saskatchewan, and beyond (14 in Calgary, plus Cochrane, Regina, Saskatoon).
Serving 600,000–700,000 patients annually, delivering over 90,000 radiological interpretations—the largest teleradiology provider in Western Canada.
Vision & Mission:
Vision: “A world in which every person has clarity about their health.”
Mission: “To improve people’s lives, one focused image and one caring, compassionate human touch at a time.”
