The Comox Valley Healthcare Foundation is celebrating the arrival of a new state-of-the-art mammography unit, as part of the ongoing campaign to enhance diagnostic equipment at Comox Valley Hospital.

The upgrades mean faster, more accurate breast imaging and a more comfortable experience for patients across the region.

It’s part of a tri-site equipment enhancement across Island Health and was made possible through the support and partnership of the Auxiliary Society for Comox Valley Healthcare, community donors, and local businesses.

The foundation says that together, the contributions are helping ensure that residents and visitors alike have access to the latest in diagnostic technology, right here close to home.

The new mammography system is capable of performing more than 5,600 exams each year at Comox Valley Hospital.

It features advanced Digital Breast Tomosynthesis, a cutting-edge 3D imaging technology that delivers sharper, more detailed images, particularly beneficial for patients with dense breast tissue.

“This technology is a game-changer,” said Alexandra Melanson, Medical Imaging Manager for North Vancouver Island.

“Patients will benefit from faster scan times, enhanced diagnostic accuracy, and a more comfortable experience during what can be one of the most stressful moments in their healthcare journey.”

The new equipment replaces aging machines that were nearing end of life. With this upgraded unit, patients can now expect shorter wait times, more reliable service, and earlier detection opportunities.

The new tech also opens the door to future advancements in breast imaging - such as Contrast Enhanced Mammography, a next-generation tool that could assist clinicians and surgeons in presurgical assessment and help ensure patients continue to receive the highest level of care.

“We’re so proud of what our community has achieved together,” said Cathie Poje, President of the Auxiliary Society for Comox Valley Healthcare.

“This is what collaboration looks like—donors, partners, and healthcare teams working hand in hand to ensure that patients right here on Vancouver Island have access to the very best in medical technology.”

Fundraising continues, with the Comox Valley Healthcare Foundation working closely with the Auxiliary Society for Comox Valley Healthcare and community partners to bring additional state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment to the hospital – including the replacement of a fleet of six ultrasound machines.

For details, visit Comox Valley Healthcare Foundation.