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CEREBROVASCULAR DISEASE AND STROKE

Cerebrovascular disease refers to a group of conditions that affect the blood vessels and blood supply to the brain and can lead to a stroke. It can be caused atherosclerosis, where plaque builds up in the arteries or aneurysms that burst.

A stroke occurs when a blood vessel in the brain is blocked or bursts. Without blood and the oxygen it carries, part of the brain starts to die and can’t work properly.

There are two types of stroke:

  1. An ischemic stroke is the most common type. It happens when a blood clot forms in a blood vessel or travels from somewhere else in the circulatory system and blocks a blood vessel in the brain. Or, when blood flow to the brain is restricted due to plaque buildup.
  2. A hemorrhagic stroke is less common but more deadly. It develops when an artery in the brain leaks or bursts, causing bleeding inside or near the surface of the brain.

Brain damage can begin within minutes, so it’s important to recognize stroke symptoms. Quick treatment can help limit damage and increase the chance of recovery. If you have symptoms that seem like a stroke, even if they go away quickly, you may have had a transient ischemic attack (TIA), sometimes called a mini-stroke. A TIA might be a warning that a stroke could happen, so speaking to your health care practitioner and getting treatment may help prevent one.

HOW CAN I LOWER MY RISK OF STROKE?

Many Canadians have at least one risk factor for stroke. Knowing your risk factors is the first step in helping to prevent a stroke. For example, you can reduce your risk by having regular medical checkups and focusing on treatable risk factors like:

  • High blood pressure – the leading cause of stroke. It important to know your blood pressure, have it checked yearly, and work with your doctor to lower it if it’s too high.
  • Smoking – damages blood vessels and can lead to blockages.
  • Diabetes – more than doubles your risk of stroke, so it’s important to work with your doctor to manage your diabetes.
  • High cholesterol – increases the risk of blocked arteries.
  • Physical inactivity and obesity – it’s important to say active and maintain a healthy weight and diet.
  • Heart disease – can lead to an increased chance of blockages or clots.
  • Illegal drug use and sleep apnea – are both linked to an increased risk of stroke.

It’s also important to be aware of non-treatable risk factors like age, gender, heredity, race, and history of prior stroke or TIA. If your risk of stroke is high, speaking to your health care practitioner about possible lifestyle changes and regular screening options that can help lower your risk. For example, coronary CT angiography and vascular ultrasound are often used to monitor and/or diagnosis patients at risk of cerebrovascular disease and stroke. Almost 80 percent of premature strokes can be prevented through healthy behaviours.

WHAT ARE THE WARNING SIGNS OF A STROKE?

Recognizing these stroke symptoms helps determine when to call for medical help FAST:

  • Face drooping.
  • Arm weakness.
  • Speech difficulty.
  • Time to call 911.

For more information on stroke, visit the Heart and Stroke Foundation website.

 

REFERENCES

American Heart Association. (2022) “Stroke Risk Factors.” www.stroke.org. Accessed October 24, 2022.

Healthwise Staff (2022) “Stroke.” www.MyHealth.Alberta.ca. Accessed October 24, 2022.

Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada (2022) “Risk and prevention.” www.heartandstroke.ca. Accessed October 24, 2022.

Public Health Agency of Canada. (2017) “About stroke.” Government of Canada. www.canada.ca. Accessed October 24, 2022.

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Mayfair Diagnostics

Calgary, Cochrane, Regina

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Radiologist

Radiologists are specialized physicians who interpret diagnostic imaging to diagnose and monitor a wide range of medical conditions. At Mayfair Diagnostics, they review X-ray, ultrasound, CT, and MRI studies, among others, analyzinsg images in detail and providing comprehensive reports and clinical recommendations to referring physicians. They collaborate closely with technologists and clinic teams to guide imaging protocols, ensure quality and radiation safety standards, and may perform image-guided procedures such as biopsies or injections. Through their expertise and teamwork, radiologists play a key role in accurate diagnosis, effective treatment planning, and improved patient outcomes.

Administration

Administrative professionals support the organization across human resources, marketing, operations, strategic partnerships, finance, information technology, and infrastructure. From recruiting staff to promoting services and improving workflows, they help ensure smooth operations and positive experiences for employees and patients. Through collaboration with clinical and support teams, they provide essential coordination that enables efficient, high-quality service.

Diagnostic Imaging Assistant

Diagnostic Imaging Assistant (DIA) support clinic operations and help ensure a positive patient experience. They assist staff by greeting and preparing patients, confirming information, coordinating appointments, and guiding patients through their visit. DIAs also maintain exam rooms, manage documentation, and ensure supplies and equipment are ready. Through strong customer service, attention to detail, and teamwork, they help create a safe and organized environment.

Patient Experience Coordinator

Patient Experience Coordinators (PECs) are the first point of contact, scheduling exams and ensuring accurate patient information. They communicate clearly with patients, coordinate with care teams, and support a smooth, confidential, and customer-focused experience.

Nuclear Medicine Technologist

Nuclear Medical Technologists perform diagnostic nuclear medicine procedures involving sensitive and highly personal patient circumstances. They are responsible for delivering the highest standard of care in a professional, compassionate, and patient-centered manner, in accordance with provincial regulatory requirements, CAMRT standards, and Mayfair policies and guidelines.

CT Technologist

Computed Tomography (CT) Technologists operate CT imaging equipment to produce detailed cross-sectional images of the body that assist in diagnosing a wide range of medical conditions. They prepare and position patients for scans, ensure safety protocols are followed, and administer contrast agents when required. CT technologists work closely with radiologists to ensure high-quality diagnostic images are obtained, while providing clear communication and compassionate care to support patient comfort throughout the procedure.

MRI Technologist

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Technologists operates MRI scanners to produce detailed images of internal body structures used to assist in medical diagnosis and treatment planning. They are responsible for preparing and positioning patients, ensuring all safety protocols are strictly followed due to the strong magnetic field, and obtaining high-quality images as directed by radiologists. MRI technologists combine technical expertise with patient care, providing clear communication and support to ensure a safe, comfortable, and efficient imaging experience.

Diagnostic Medical Sonographer

Diagnostic Medical Sonographers perform ultrasound exams to help diagnose and monitor medical conditions. Following Sonography Canada standards and Mayfair Diagnostics protocols, they capture accurate images while ensuring patient safety, comfort, and confidentiality. They work with radiologists and clinical teams to review requisitions, prepare patients, perform scans, and document findings, contributing to accurate diagnoses and a positive patient experience.

Medical Radiation Technologist

Medical Radiation Technologists (MRTs) perform x-ray, mammography, and BMD exams while ensuring patient safety, accuracy, and compassionate care.  They also may assist in pain therapy procedures. MRTs verify patient information, explain procedures, position patients, and produce high-quality images. MRTs follow professional standards and protocols, maintaining strict radiation safety, quality assurance, and patient privacy while supporting a positive patient experience.

Our Culture

We foster a supportive and collaborative culture designed to encourage positive patient experiences and build strong working relationships across the organization:

  • We recognize each other for our contributions – big and small.
  • We focus on teamwork and personal accountability to achieve our goals.
  • When we commit to deadlines, we complete the work as promised, by when we promised. If we realize we can’t keep our commitments, we collaborate to find new deadlines well in advance of the original ones.
  • We feel safe to speak up responsibly. That means we freely share what’s on our minds in a way that is respectful and supports the success of the organization.
  • We commit to our patients and their needs. We show up each day ready to live our vision, mission, and values.
  • We challenge each other to grow and develop our skills and we support each other to do so.
  • Above all, we go the extra mile to support our patients and colleagues. 

Our Values.

Our core values shape the way we work with patients, partners, and fellow employees. And, more than anything else, they’re what set Mayfair apart. In everything we do, this is what we strive for:

EXCELLENCE

We share a commitment to high quality and excellence in all that we do. This commitment calls on all of us to achieve the very best of our capabilities and exceed our own expectations.

CURIOSITY

We innovate in everything, from services to processes. We believe meaningful change and effective problem solving come only by looking at challenges and opportunities from new angles and by exercising our creativity and curiosity.

PASSION

We show pride, enthusiasm, and dedication in everything that we do. We are committed to producing and delivering high-quality results and services. We are passionate about our industry and about our company, services, partners, and patients.

COLLABORATION

Our team is supportive of each other’s efforts; we are loyal to one another; and we care for one another both personally and professionally. We promote and support a diverse, yet unified, team. We work together to meet our common goals across Mayfair clinics, locations, and geographies. Only through collaboration on ideas, technologies, and talents can we achieve our mission and vision.

SERVICE

We take pride in delivering exceptional service every day. We listen to every request with an open mind, always looking for opportunities to go above and beyond to create memorable, personalized experiences. We take responsibility to answer our referrers’ and patients’ requests and respect their time by always responding with a sense of urgency.

Start with us.

Join Mayfair Diagnostics, recognized as one of Western Canada’s premier medical imaging organizations. With a century-long legacy and headquartered in Calgary, Alberta, Mayfair Diagnostics is dedicated to assisting patients in achieving clarity regarding their health.

Operating clinics in Calgary and surrounding areas, Regina, and Saskatoon, our multidisciplinary team of radiologists, technologists, and support staff collaborate seamlessly to deliver high quality patient care. Working here is more than just a job; it’s a strong step towards your future.

OUR TEAMS

We are a dedicated group of professionals who combine skill with compassion to deliver attentive care to our patients. As a reliable partner in their health care journey, we provide high-quality imaging that assists patients, physicians, and other providers in making informed health decisions. Our work goes beyond imaging; it’s about fostering relationships and positively impacting everyone we serve.

OUR VISION

We envision a world where every person has clarity about their health. We innovate and welcome change, promoting leadership and creativity through safe risk-taking. We share best practices, earn peer recognition for our work, and engage top talent to reach our goals.

We strive to be thought leaders and encourage creativity by providing a safe place for calculated risk taking.

We share best practices across our operations and are recognized by our peers for our work. We engage the best to help propel us forward in achieving our goals.