Ontario Breast Screening Program
How to get screened for breast cancer through the Ontario Breast Screening Program.
Overview
The Ontario Breast Screening Program (OBSP) provides breast screening mammography services in hospitals and community health centres for women of all ages.
If you are a woman aged 50 years and older, and at average risk for breast cancer, clinical guidelines recommend breast screening every two years. Regular mammograms (breast x-rays) help with early detection and treatment of breast cancer.
Women enrolled in the Ontario Breast Screening Program will be notified of their test results, and will automatically be sent a reminder when their next mammogram is due. If follow-up is necessary, it is coordinated by either the screening site or your family doctor or nurse practitioner.
Services
May vary by location:
- mammograms
- referrals for further testing or treatment
- reminders for next mammogram
When to use this option
If you are a woman:
- over 50 with an average risk for breast cancer, you should have a mammogram every 2 years
- under 50 and your family doctor or nurse practitioner has requested that you be screened for breast cancer
Referrals
If you are a woman between 50 and 74 years of age, you do not need a referral.
The OBSP also provides screening for women aged 30 to 69 who are at high risk for breast cancer. A referral from a doctor or nurse practitioner is needed for screening for women at high risk.
Appointments
Contact the OBSP nearest you to make an appointment.
Fees
There is no fee for this service. Please bring your health card to your appointment.
Other options
Breast screening centres in hospitals and diagnostic facilities that are not part of the Ontario Breast Screening Program provide screening mammography services for women of all ages. These breast screening locations require a referral from your family doctor or nurse practitioner.