A DROP in bookings has prompted a plea from BreastScreen Queensland (BSQ) to take advantage of their free mobile service available at Atherton Showgrounds until 10 March.

BSQ client Rachel Bernays said it was vital Atherton women put their health first and took advantage of this convenient service. 

“Breast Screening is an important part of women’s health and is often forgotten despite reminder letters,” she said.

“No matter how busy you are, it is so important to use this service so it continues to cater to the rural community.”

BSQ Health Promotion Officer Rowena Heart said the Atherton service offered the same state of the art digital technology that is offered for Cairns clients.

“We are fortunate to have the opportunity to move this state of the art equipment across the region with our mobile service. This ensures the same quality care and access for all women, no matter where they live.”

There are currently 182 unfilled appointments for the next two weeks awaiting local ladies.

“If we don’t fill these appointments we will have to leave Atherton earlier and move onto our next site so these appointments don’t go to waste,” Heart said.

“We want to give ladies the opportunity to know this service is available now and remind those that might have forgotten to jump in and book their appointment.”

Heart said the service would not be available in Atherton again until 2019.

A breastscreen takes a picture of what is happening inside the breast tissue and can pick up changes in the breast, often before they can be seen or felt by a woman or a doctor.

Women aged 50-74 are strongly recommended to screen every two years during the highest risk period.

All women 40 years and over are eligible for this free service that does not require a referral from a doctor. For more information or to book your appointment call 13 20 50.

The mobile service is located at the Atherton Showgrounds behind Merriland Hall and can be accessed via Robert Street. Friday March 10 will be the last day for locals to screen in Atherton for 2017.