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Jones says government's goal of voluntary accreditation for mammography units not enough
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Yvonne Jones, Opposition Critic for Health and Community Services and MHA
for the District of Cartwright - L’Anse au Clair, says government’s lack of
action toward a mandatory accreditation program for mammography units in the
province is unacceptable. "This government has the responsibility to the people of Newfoundland and Labrador to guarantee that they are receiving the best health care possible," said Jones. "Mandatory accreditation of all mammography units in the province is a necessary step toward that goal. By urging voluntary action, the Acting Health Minister has acknowledged that such a guarantee of proficiency is good for the province. Now I urge him to take the next step and make accreditation mandatory." Provincial governments across the country, citing patient safety as their primary concern, are implementing programs of mandatory accreditation. Manitoba’s Health Minister is considering such options as introducing legislation to force accreditation, or refusing to cover tests done at unaccredited facilities. "I call on government to explain to the people of Newfoundland and Labrador why similar steps are not being taken here in our province. With such a serious issue, half-measures are not acceptable. "Breast cancer screening and treatment are perhaps the most physically and emotionally trying experiences a woman can face. In light of this, the very least that government can do is to provide these women with the peace of mind only available from the guarantee that they are receiving the best treatment possible."
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