Some patients at the Charlotte County Hospital have recently had their mammography appointments changed. In a statement sent to CTV Atlantic Horizon Health Network Vice-President of Quality, Patient Experience and Professional Services Jeff Carter says some patients have had their appointments for breast screening rescheduled due to seasonal staffing challenges. “We know that timely access to breast screening is important, and we acknowledge the frustration that comes with delayed or cancelled appointments,” Carter says in a statement. “Horizon remains fully committed to supporting early detection and treatment by ensuring patients have access to high-quality screening services, as close to home as possible.” The hospitals medical imaging department is currently booking mammography appointments in October according to Carter. When fully staffed, the Charlotte County Hospital are typically available for breast screening appointments two to three days a week. Carter admits there is one vacancy at the hospital for a medical radiation technologist that the health agency is looking to fill but are otherwise fully staffed. Pre-approved summer vacations for staff are part of the reason for the appointment issues. “We are grateful to the community for their patience and understanding as we work to improve access to these critical services and enhance the overall experience for all patients accessing breast screening and other services at the Charlotte County Hospital,” says Carter. When asked about the situation Thursday by reporters, New Brunswick’s Health Minister John Dornan says his department is working with the health agency to fill the vacancy and return regular service to the hospital. He says they cannot control when staff leave their roles for “greener fields” or any other reason why people decide to find a new job. “That’s an aspect of our health care system that we don’t have people sitting around doing nothing waiting to fill a job,” says Dornan, “When somebody leaves we work hard to replace them as soon as possible.” Neither Dornan or Horizon was able to say when regular breast screening procedures will return to the hospital. For more New Brunswick news, visit our dedicated provincial page.
