Funding Shortage Affects Breast-Cancer Screening in B.C.
Dr. Paula Gordon, a radiologist and medical researcher specializing in breast cancer, says a shortage of funding is affecting breast-cancer screening in British Columbia. Gordon, a clinical professor in the department of radiology at the University of British Columbia, points to a lack of radiology services and a funding model that discourages radiologists from performing breast cancer screening.
Medicare Reimbursement Falls Short
According to Gordon, the fees set by the public system do not cover the true overhead of screening. “We’re finding loads of cancers at our clinic, doing ultrasound for women with dense breasts. But the fee they told us to use is not a screening fee, and it doesn’t cover the true overhead,” she said. This has led some clinics to stop offering the service.
Women Forced to Private Clinics
As a result, women are turning to private clinics. “Women are going to private clinics,” says Gordon. “They’re paying upwards of $750 for an ultrasound screening that the public system pays $115 to perform.” The disparity highlights the underfunding of breast cancer screening in the province.
Outlook and Implications
Gordon warns that the situation is only going to deteriorate further unless funding models are revised. The current system not only limits access but also places a financial burden on women who need screening. She joined a Conversation That Matters to discuss the quality of breast health care in B.C.
