Home SELF-REFERRAL FOR SCREENING MAMMOGRAM
Survival rates for breast cancer have been increasing since the 1980s, thanks to earlier detection from regular mammogram screening and improvements in breast cancer treatments. Early detection of breast cancer may mean less treatment, more treatment options, and less time spent recovering.
Mammograms can identify breast cancer before symptoms develop, leading to smaller, more easily treatable cancers that may not require extensive treatments like chemotherapy or radiation.
Having a mammogram every year, or every two years (based on your risk factors), makes it easier for a radiologist to compare your images and see changes or areas of concern. If you wait until you have symptoms, the breast cancer might be more advanced requiring more extensive and invasive treatment.
Once the images have been taken in a mammogram, one of our radiologists will look over them very carefully to check for possible abnormalities or changes compared to previous images. Mammograms are the best way to detect breast cancer in its early, most treatable stage, because it provides a detailed look at the internal structure of breast tissue and can reveal changes that are too small to feel.
All women should consider having a mammogram. You can start having annual mammograms at age 40 per Alberta Health Care guidelines and coverage. To get a mammogram, you should discuss your family history, when to start screening, and how frequently you should be screened with your doctor.
Mayfair Diagnostics recommends screening mammography every year from age 40 to 49, then every two years between age 50 and 75, if there are no risks factors that would necessitate a shorter interval. After age 75, screening frequency will depend on several factors, including your medical history.
SELF-REFERRAL ELIGIBILITY:
In certain circumstances women can self-refer for their yearly or bi-yearly mammograms. You can call to book an appointment without needing to have a requisition from your doctor. You must meet the following requirements to self-refer for a mammogram:
AGE REQUIREMENTS:
Women age 40-44 – you must have had one previous mammogram referred by a doctor in Alberta.
Women age 45-74 – you do NOT need to have had a previous mammogram referred by a doctor in Alberta.
Women age 75+ – you must have had one previous mammogram referred by a doctor in Alberta.
Women under age 40 – you can NOT self refer.
For information about the Alberta Health Services breast screening program, please visit the Screening for Life website.
Or visit Mayfair Diagnostics at radiology.ca/breast-health.
REFERENCES:
Alberta Health Services Breast Cancer Screening Programs (2021) “Breast Cancer Screening.” www.screeningforlife.ca. Accessed December 18, 2023.
Canadian Cancer Society (2023) “Breast cancer statistics.” www.cancer.ca. Accessed December 18, 2023.
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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.”