At Radiméd, as in most radiology clinics across Quebec, we receive a high volume of requests for certain types of exams. This reality can lead to longer-than-desired wait times. Each exam has its own specificities and the reasons for delays vary depending on the context. Here’s an overview.

General ultrasound: surging demand

Ultrasound is a non-invasive, radiation-free procedure widely used as a frontline tool for investigating abdominal, pelvic, muscular pain, or for follow-ups on certain chronic conditions. It is prescribed very frequently, resulting in massive demand. Additionally, some ultrasounds require longer exam times, especially when complex organs or multiparametric assessments are involved.

Despite our efforts to increase exam capacity, it’s not possible to shorten the required time without compromising quality. The availability of specialized technologists is also a key limiting factor.

Mammography: expanded program, growing demand

Mammography is used for both preventive screening and to help diagnose specific symptoms. The Quebec Breast Cancer Screening Program (PQDCS) recently expanded its eligible age range to 74, significantly increasing the number of women who can get screened. Providing mammography within the PQDCS framework requires significant human and technological resources.

Some clinics have chosen to no longer offer this exam due to administrative complexity and strict quality requirements. At Radiméd, we continue to provide this service with diligence and commitment, but current demand still exceeds our capacity. This exam requires highly trained technologists who aren’t available in every facility.

Adding to this, increased awareness around prevention has encouraged even more women to have their mammograms done. As a result, clinics like ours see appointment slots fill up rapidly. While we regularly add time slots, capacity still falls short of present demand.

🦴 Arthrography: a multidisciplinary coordination

Arthrography is a specialized exam that requires the simultaneous presence of a radiologist and a technologist, sometimes involving a contrast agent injected under fluoroscopic guidance. The procedure calls for precise technical preparation and takes longer than standard exams. As a result, time slots are more limited and must be coordinated with the schedules of specialized staff and the intervention room.

💉 Joint injections: a high-demand solution for pain relief

These injections are often prescribed to alleviate chronic pain related to osteoarthritis, herniated discs, or other inflammatory conditions. They are highly sought after for helping to avoid or postpone surgery, which adds to their popularity.

Like arthrography, these procedures require the radiologist to be present, a controlled setting, and preparation time. Even with additional equipment and extended hours, demand still exceeds availability.

⏳ Careful management of our scheduling

Radiméd is renowned for the quality of its exams, the expertise of its radiologists, and the trust of referring physicians. This reputation contributes to consistently high demand across all our clinics.

We have invested in new equipment and expanded certain facilities to increase appointment availability, but these measures often aren’t enough to keep up with the rapid growth in community needs.

📅 Maximizing last-minute cancellations

To make the most of every available minute, a member of our team is dedicated to managing last-minute cancellations. This allows us to move up patients on the waitlist if someone cancels.

However, some people miss their appointments without notifying us, resulting in lost time that could have benefited someone else. For this reason, fees may apply for no-shows without prior notice. We strongly encourage patients to let us know at least 24 hours in advance if they need to cancel, as this opens up the slot for another person in need.

In conclusion

We understand the frustration and concern these wait times can cause. Please know that delays are never due to a lack of effort. We do everything we can to respond to your needs quickly. Unfortunately, in some cases, the wait time is determined by broader factors affecting the entire medical imaging system.

Thank you for your understanding and cooperation. Your health is our priority, and we are committed to providing you with high-quality service as promptly as possible.