Saskatchewan Women Push for Faster Mammogram Access Amid Changes

Changes to breast cancer screening in Saskatchewan have prompted advocates to call for reduced wait times for mammograms. In early 2026, the Saskatchewan government lowered the screening age from 45 to 43, with plans to further decrease it to 40 by June. While many welcome this initiative, concerns about extended wait times persist, as patients in the province can face delays of nearly a year to receive a mammogram.

Tammy Haas, a breast cancer survivor diagnosed with invasive ductal carcinoma triple negative in April 2025, shared her experience regarding the urgency of timely screenings. She managed to secure a mammogram at the end of March due to a cancellation. Haas believes that had she not been seen when she was, her prognosis could have been markedly different. “At the time that I had the mammogram, the mass was measuring at five centimeters. By the time I started cancer treatment six weeks later, it was already measuring over eight centimeters,” Haas explained.

Haas advocates for a healthcare system that prioritizes timely care. “In an ideal world, all tests would be completed within six weeks. It is unfair and frustrating that patients have to fight to be seen sooner by a doctor,” she stated. “We shouldn’t have to push for our health-care system. We pay for it. That’s one of the joys of being Canadian.”

Another advocate, Lisa Vick, who was diagnosed in September 2023, echoed similar sentiments about the healthcare communication process. While acknowledging the government’s efforts, she highlighted the need for improved communication. “We’re dealing with enough as cancer patients; you shouldn’t have to be calling your doctor to follow up or the Breast Health Center for updates,” said Vick.

Despite the challenges, Vick expressed hope for progress after touring the new breast center in Regina. She believes the facility will significantly benefit women in southern Saskatchewan. “We got to see where the mammograms are done, the biopsies, the ultrasound. They have surgeons that come in every week, and a social worker on site to help navigate the process,” Vick noted. “Once this center is up and running at full capacity, it’s going to be a fabulous process.”

Women in northern Saskatchewan are referred to the breast health center in Saskatoon for their screenings. In response to the growing concerns regarding wait times for mammograms, the Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA) stated that referrals are based on individual clinics and personal risk factors.

“Diagnostic breast imaging, including mammography and ultrasound, requires physician referral and is dependent on an individual’s clinical indications and personal risk factors,” the SHA explained. They also mentioned that diagnostic breast imaging is available in several communities, including North Battleford, Yorkton, Moose Jaw, and Swift Current, prioritizing bookings based on urgency. Wait times can vary significantly, ranging from one week to 11 months.

The SHA further detailed that mammogram screenings are available through the Breast Check program for women aged 43 and older who meet specific criteria. “Wait times for this program can vary from two weeks to four months, depending on preferred location,” they stated.

Regardless of the wait, anxiety remains a significant concern for patients grappling with the uncertainty of their health. In response to this need, WeyStrong Cancer Support Services Inc. provides resources and support through their Facebook page, aiming to educate women about advocacy and navigating the healthcare system.

As women in Saskatchewan continue to push for faster access to mammograms, the urgency for timely care remains at the forefront of discussions. The hope is that with increased awareness and improved facilities, the screening process can become more efficient, ultimately saving lives.