New machine reading technology
We are proud to introduce new technology to support our radiologists (specialist doctors) to interpret mammograms. This will ensure we continue to deliver a world class service, while meeting the needs of NSW’s growing population.
Your breast screening appointment will remain the same, you will still receive the same level of expertise, care and compassion during your visit.
What is machine reading technology?
Machine reading uses computer image recognition technology to interpret mammograms to look for early stage breast cancer. The technology is used to complement the work of our specialist radiologists.
Why has it been implemented across BreastScreen NSW?
The population of women who need to be screened is growing and there is a widely reported shortage of radiologists. Using machine reading technology to support the expertise of our radiologists, allows us to maintain a high-quality service, improving our ability to find breast cancer early and save lives.
Will this technology impact my screening results?
You can be assured that the accuracy of your results will not be impacted. One or more specialist radiologists will independently review your images, supported by the latest technology.
Further information
Just as you cannot choose which radiologists read your images, you cannot opt out of this technology being used to assist with reading your images.
The technology is approved by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA). Prior to making any changes, BreastScreen NSW undertook a study to evaluate the accuracy of this new technology.
The study showed that the technology was comparable to the current process for reading mammograms.
We are committed to protecting the privacy of women’s information and complying with all privacy policies and legislation. We have rigorous processes in place to ensure that any possible provision of data is done lawfully and ethically.
No identifiable information is sent outside of BreastScreen NSW. All screening data is automatically de-identified and encrypted before being sent to the machine reading technology, ensuring your privacy and maintaining data security.
The technology (Lunit Insight MMG) is supporting and not replacing the expertise of a specialist radiologist. At least one radiologist will continue to read every woman’s images to look for the early stages of breast cancer, with machine reading technology providing additional analysis. At times, there may be up to three specialist radiologists involved with reviewing an individual’s images.
The technology uses software that is based on deep learning, which is a form of artificial intelligence, but the software itself is not artificial intelligence. It does not learn or change while in use.
