Diagnostic Imaging

At Sioux Lookout Meno Ya Win Health Centre, we currently offer the following Diagnostic Imaging services:

• General Radiography (X-Ray)
• Gastrointestinal Fluoroscopy 
• Screening and Diagnostic Mammography (OBSP Site)
• Computed Tomography (CT)
• Ultrasonography (Ultrasound)
• Echocardiography

Our CT Scanner provides more complex images and fills a serious need in the north. It saves time and travel for patients, increasing the speed of diagnosis and, ultimately, treatment.

The digital mammography unit was awarded accreditation from the Canadian Association of Radiologists, which has given us the opportunity to expand our breast screening and diagnostic mammography services.

Our diagnostic imaging equipment has been computerized and is linked with a regional picture archiving and communications system (PACS). This is leading edge technology whereby images can be sent or retrieved from across Northwestern Ontario and beyond within minutes.

X-ray services are offered in 17 First Nation communities. These are affiliated with the Basic Radiography Workers (BRW) program, which allows graduates to provide basic x-ray services in the community health centres, which are then interpreted at our hospital in Sioux Lookout.

Our staffing consists of seven (7) X-Ray Technologists, one (1) Mammography Technologist, four (4) Ultrasonographers (one (1) Echocardiographer), and two booking clerks. 

Update to Patient Shielding Practices at SLMHC

Sioux Lookout Meno Ya Win Health Centre (SLMHC) will no longer be routinely using lead shielding for patients receiving diagnostic imaging exams involving ionizing radiation, such as X-Rays, CT scans, Mammograms and Fluoroscopy procedures. 

This decision is informed by evolving evidence, advancements in imaging equipment, and recent changes to Health Canada’s Safety Code 35: Safety Procedures for the Installation, Use and Control of X-ray Equipment in Large Medical Radiological Facilities , which outlines radiation safety standards for medical imaging facilities, such as hospitals.

These updated guidelines reflect a broader understanding of how modern imaging systems function and prioritize patient safety without the need for shielding, which is now considered outdated for most procedures.

Our technologists are trained to use the lowest possible radiation dose while ensuring high-quality images. We remain committed to upholding the highest standards of care, guided by current research and national safety protocols.

If you have questions or concerns, we encourage you to speak with your care provider or a member of our Diagnostic Imaging team.

For more information, please click here.

Outpatient Hours

By appointment only – call to book

8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Tuesday to Thursday. Closed Stat holidays.

X-Ray & CT Hours

7:00 a.m. – 11 p.m. Tuesday to Thursday

7:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Friday, Saturday, Sunday, Monday and Stat holidays

We are discontinuing the use of shielding during patient X-rays. For more information, please click here.

Ultrasound and Echocardiography Hours

8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Monday to Saturday

On-call Sundays and Stat holidays.

Mammography

8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Monday to Friday. Closed on Weekends and Stat holidays.

We are now offering physician-directed and self-referred breast screening services for women, transgender, Two-Spirit, and non-binary individuals. Individuals over 40 years of age can call our direct line at (807) 737-6579 to schedule an appointment. 

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