08/07/2025
STATE-OF-THE-ART MAMMOGRAM MACHINE AT POTCH HOSPITAL
Potchefstroom Hospital in the Dr Kenneth Kaunda District has once again taken a stand to be the facility of choice and a beacon of hope for quality patient care in the North West Province. This follows the installation of a brand-new mammogram machine to the tune of R4,780,798.78.
The FUJIFILM machine is a state-of-the-art device and the first of its kind in South Africa. It is now installed at the Potchefstroom Hospital CT Scan Unit.
“Mammogram is an exam used to detect breast cancer early and to identify abnormalities before symptoms appear. This can also assist in improving treatment outcomes and survival rates,” said Chief Radiographer, Ms. Olga Sekwati.
Breast cancer incidence is increasing, with 1 in 30 South African women at risk. It is important for women to schedule regular breast cancer screening tests to detect the disease at an early stage. Risk factors include family history, lifestyle, and genetic predisposition.
“Patients from Potchefstroom Hospital have been referred to Tshepong Hospital for mammogram examinations. The waiting period for bookings was very long, which caused delays in patient management due to the long list at Tshepong Hospital,” Ms. Sekwati concluded.
Risks associated with the long waiting period include:
1. Patients’ conditions may become advanced before proper diagnosis.
2. There may be metastasis due to delays.
3. Patients could pass away before a doctor can make a proper diagnosis.
The new mammogram machine was installed at Potchefstroom Hospital in May 2025 and is operated by a qualified mammographer, Ms. Tshegofatso Tsikwe. The department uses a booking system for referred patients.
Patients should consult at the Surgical OPD, where they will be seen by a doctor. If needed, the doctor will make an appointment with the X-Ray Department.
Working hours for mammogram services are from 07h30 to 16h00, only on Tuesdays and Thursdays.