Our Breast imaging unit provides comprehensive imaging of the breast including performing biopsies.
About this service
We provide mammography (a type of low dose x-ray), ultrasound and MRI (magnetic resonance imaging).
We use a very strong magnet and radio waves to get our images. MRI safety is very important and not everyone is safe to have a scan. If we think it is not safe for you to have an MRI scan, we will discuss alternatives with your referring doctor.
Who we care for
Our service is for women and men of all ages experiencing breast symptoms such as breast lump, pain or nipple discharge and have a strong family history of breast cancer.
Our services are available for patients with a referral from their specialist or GP.
Medicare will cover most specialist referrals. Most GP referrals and some specialist referrals are not covered by Medicare, and you will have to pay for the scan.
If you do not meet the Medicare requirements, we can arrange a payment plan after your scan.
Please note that this is not the same as the service known as BreastScreen which is a separate screening service for people without breast symptoms.
How to access this service
You need a referral from a specialist or GP.
We will contact you to book your scan once we have received your referral.
If you are an inpatient or a patient in the emergency department, your treating doctor will arrange for you to access this service.
If you need to contact us, our phone number is (02) 5124 2159.
What to expect
We will phone you to discuss your specific scan including anything you need to do to prepare.
It is also a good opportunity for you to ask us any questions.
All imaging is reviewed by a subspecialist breast radiologist and findings are discussed with you in detail at the time of the appointment. Further investigations such as core needle biopsy or fine needle aspiration are available and can be performed at the time of imaging if required.
What to bring to your appointment
- Medicare card
- Veterans Affairs card
- Medication you need to take while you are here
- List of medication you are currently taking (or the boxes), including medication you have bought without a prescription, such as herbal supplements and vitamins
- Previous x-ray films, scans, ultrasounds or any other test results or reports
Where we’re located
Medical Imaging, Building 12, Level 2, Canberra Hospital.
From the main entrance, head to Building 1, go past the lifts and follow the blue line on the floor to the Medical Imaging Reception.
We have location and direction information on Canberra Hospital.
Information for referrers
Please see Community HealthPathways for detailed referral criteria and information.
Referrals are accepted by:
- Phone: (02) 5124 2159
- Fax: (02) 5124 2494
- SmartForm