2. RECRUITMENT

Significant reduction in breast cancer mortality (i.e., 30-40%) is dependent on high participation rates of target women. A minimum of 70% of women 50-69 years of age must be participating in quality screening4,9,10 once every two years. Recommendation by a family physician11-14 and personal letters of invitation9,12 have been found to be the most effective ways to recruit women to breast screening services.

  1. The geographical area of recruitment shall be the catchment area for each Region Hospital Corporation.
  2. A variety of methods should be used to encourage participation of target women in breast screening: personal letters of invitation, recommendation/referral by family physicians, endorsement and promotion by women's groups and community organizations, group presentations, the media, etc.
  3. Region Hospital Corporations shall have access to a Department of Health and Community Services' registry of women (including their names and addresses) in their recruitment areas between 50-69 years of age. Women identified on the registry shall receive a letter of invitation (see Appendix D) to participate in breast screening services.
  4. Region Hospital Corporations shall attempt to achieve at least a 70% participation rate of target women once every two years.

3. PROMOTION OF BREAST SCREENING SERVICES

The Department of Health and Community Services shall implement general provincial efforts to promote breast screening services, including the development of a standard brochure aimed at encouraging participation of the target group and the mailing of introductory explanatory letters to health professionals and provincial associations/organizations requesting their support.