Mayfair Diagnostics will no longer routinely be offering gonadal (reproductive organ) or fetal shielding while performing diagnostic imaging, such as during CT, mammography, pain management, and X-ray exams. This decision is based on current scientific research and consistent with recommendations from the Canadian Association of Medical Radiation Technologists and other provincial, national, and international regulatory bodies.
Patient safety and comfort remain Mayfair’s top priority and all exposures of radiation will continue to be 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 is always considered.
How does our new lead shielding policy align with the ALARA principle? The decision to no longer routinely use lead shielding was made for several reasons, all of which align with the ALARA principle.
In 70 years of research, no studies have proven the harmful effects of X-rays on reproductive organs or the fetus (unborn baby) during diagnostic imaging in the current dose range. In fact, studies have shown that the human body is not as sensitive to radiation as we used to believe, and routine use of lead shielding shows negligible benefit for the patient or fetus.
Medical imaging technology has improved dramatically over the decades. Using our current technology, we can take high-quality images with very small amounts of radiation. On average, patients receive 20-25 times less radiation than they did in the 1950s.
For example, Mayfair’s diagnostic imaging equipment uses automatic exposure control, which automatically stops exposure when a preset amount of radiation has been detected. This helps provide consistent high-quality images while ensuring radiation levels are automatically adjusted based on patient size.
Medical radiation technologists (MRTs) also follow various protocols to ensure the ALARA principle is followed:
Patients come in different sizes, which may cause shielding to be misplaced. Poorly placed shielding can impact the quality of the X-ray. It may also obscure anatomy that is important for an accurate diagnosis and cause the procedure to be repeated.
Every member of the Mayfair Diagnostics team is dedicated to ensuring our patients have the information they need to make informed decisions and are supported in those decisions. Your technologist will be happy to answer any questions you may have. And, if you feel more comfortable with it, lead shielding may still be requested.
For more information about the procedures offered at Mayfair Diagnostics clinics, please visit our services page.
REFERENCES
National Council on Radiation Protection and Measurements (2021). “NCRP Recommendations for Ending Routine Gonadal Shielding During Abdominal and Pelvic Radiography.” www.ncrponline.org. Accessed August 8, 2023.
Canadian Association of Medical Radiation Technologists (2023) “Patient Shielding Position: Frequently Asked Questions.” www.camrt.ca. Accessed August 8, 2023.
Canadian Association of Medical Radiation Technologists (2021) “Minimizing Patient Exposure.” CAMRT Member Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct. Accessed August 8, 2023.
Canadian Association of Radiologists (2021) “CAR Issues New Position Statement on Gonadal and Fetal Shielding for X-ray.” www.car.ca. Accessed August 8, 2023.
Fawcett, S.L. & Barter, S.J. (2009) “The use of gonad shielding in paediatric hip and pelvis radiographs.” The British Institute of Radiology. 2009;82(977):363-370. Accessed August 8, 2023.
Fawcett, S.L., et al. (2012) “More harm than good? The anatomy of misguided shielding of the ovaries.” The British Institute of Radiology. 2012;85(1016):e442-447. Accessed August 8, 2023.
Handloser, J.S. & Love, R.A. (1951) “Radiation Doses from Diagnostic X-Ray Studies.” Radiology. 1951;57(2):252-254. Accessed August 8, 2023.
Marsh, R.M. & Silosky, M. (2019) “Patient shielding in diagnostic imaging: Discontinuing a legacy practice.” American Journal of Roentgenology. 2019;212(4):755-757. Accessed August 8, 2023.
National Research Council. (2006) Health risks from exposure to low levels of ionizing radiation: BEIR VII. Published 2006. Accessed August 8, 2023.
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.
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 (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 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 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.
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.
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 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 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.
We foster a supportive and collaborative culture designed to encourage positive patient experiences and build strong working relationships across the organization:
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.
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.
