A new machine will deliver clearer, high-quality images while also providing a more comfortable screening experience for women attending BreastScreen Queensland.
BreastScreen Queensland Rockhampton Service Clinical Director Dr Lea Kleinschmidt said the new technology was an exciting addition for the region.
“This is absolute cutting-edge technology and, importantly, it has been designed with the comfort of women in mind,” Dr Kleinschmidt said.
“We’ve already had women tell us it was the most comfortable mammogram they have ever had.
“The quality of the images is also exceptional. Being able to see even the smallest details helps our clinicians make clear decisions and provide the best possible care for each woman.”
The new machine features technology designed to optimise breast compression while maintaining high-quality imaging.
It also includes specialised comfort paddles and improved ergonomics for radiographers.
Chief Radiographer Joshna Govender said the new machine was a major benefit for both women accessing screening and the staff delivering the service.
“The technology is amazing, the image quality is excellent and the new comfort features can make the examination a much better experience for women,” Joshna said.
“We know some women can feel nervous about having a mammogram, particularly if it is their first time, so our focus is always on making them feel comfortable, welcome and cared for.
“Most first-time clients walk out saying, ‘That wasn’t bad at all’ and that they would happily come back again. That’s exactly the experience we want women to have.”
Joshna said regular breast screening played an important role in detecting breast cancer before changes could be felt.
“Early breast cancers can be too small to feel, which is why regular screening is so important,” she said.
“We want women across Gladstone to take advantage of having this fantastic technology available locally.”
Dr Kleinschmidt said the investment reflected BreastScreen Queensland’s focus on providing high-quality screening services for women across regional Queensland.
“Everything we do is centred around the woman, her experience, her dignity and the quality of care she receives,” she said.
“I’m incredibly proud that women in Gladstone can access this modern technology close to home.”
Women aged 40 years and over are eligible for free breast screening through BreastScreen Queensland, with women aged 50 to 74 particularly encouraged to attend every two years.
No doctor’s referral is required. Appointments can be made by calling 13 20 50 or booking online through BreastScreen Queensland.
A screening appointment generally takes around 20 minutes from arrival to departure, with the mammogram itself taking only a few minutes.