Halifax woman waited 3 years for MRI that showed she had brain tumour

A Halifax resident, Marina Atwell, has recently shared her frustrations after waiting over three years for an MRI that ultimately revealed a benign brain tumour. Atwell, who was referred for diagnostic imaging of her brain by a doctor at a hospital eye clinic in June 2021, had experienced a significant weakening in one of her eyes, impacting her vision. The discovery of a two-centimetre tumour on her brain left her feeling stressed and worried about the implications of the delay in diagnosis.

Despite her stable condition and the decision not to remove the tumour due to its size and location, Atwell is puzzled by the lengthy wait for the MRI that led to her diagnosis. She questions why she was offered two additional MRIs in the months following her crucial appointment. The Nova Scotia Health Authority’s website indicates that 90 percent of MRI referrals are typically served within 435 days, but Atwell’s wait far exceeded this timeframe.

Ania Kielar, president of the Canadian Association of Radiologists, emphasizes the importance of timely MRI scans for accurate diagnoses, noting that delays can lead to worsened conditions for patients. She stresses that the anxiety of not knowing what is wrong should not be overlooked, as prolonged waits can have detrimental effects on individuals’ health outcomes.

Atwell’s proactive approach to her healthcare, including offering to travel anywhere in the province for an MRI and following up on her appointment status, highlights the lengths to which patients may go to expedite their care. Despite finally receiving her MRI at St. Martha’s Regional Hospital in Antigonish and being connected with a neurologist, Atwell encountered further scheduling issues, receiving multiple MRI appointments after her initial scan.

Concerns about patients missing appointments, limited MRI units in Nova Scotia, and communication gaps between facilities further complicate the healthcare system’s efficiency. Atwell emphasizes the need for improved communication channels to prevent wasted appointments and ensure that patients receive timely care.

As Atwell reflects on her experience, she acknowledges her privilege in being able to wait for her MRI results but recognizes that others may not have the same luxury. She urges for a more streamlined system that prioritizes patient care and reduces unnecessary delays in accessing vital medical services. Ultimately, Atwell’s story sheds light on the challenges within Nova Scotia’s healthcare system, emphasizing the need for improved processes to better serve patients in need.