New Medical Tests
To help you get more accurate diagnoses and results, CML HealthCare regularly evaluates the latest advances in medical testing methods. To that end, we offer the following new tests.
A new type of HPV test
CML HealthCare now offers a new technology for the detection of HPV (human papillomavirus), the leading cause of cervical cancer. Using HPV-DNA, through target amplification technology (PCR), it is currently the most sensitive test available.
What is the benefit of using CML HealthCare’s HPV test?
Our test provides the most accurate and reliable result of all tests in this category.
Will the vaccine protect against all HPV infections leading to cervical cancer?
No. There are 14 high-risk types that are known to be involved in cervical cancer. The vaccine protects against two high-risk types known to cause up to 70 percent of cervical cancer cases. An HPV test is not required before vaccination.
How much does the test cost?
A patient will be required to pay $90.00 for each HPV test because this test is not covered by OHIP.
Payment can be made through Visa or MasterCard or by a cheque written to CML HealthCare Inc.
How long does it take to get the results back?
Results are available in approximately seven days.
FOBT (Fecal Occult Blood Testing)
This test determines whether you are at risk for colon cancer, the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in Canada. When caught early through regular screening, colorectal cancer is 90 percent curable. Guidelines suggest that anyone aged 50 and older should be screened on a yearly basis.
The Colon Cancer Check program has made FOBT kits widely available across Ontario. If you are 50 and over, and at average risk for colorectal cancer, you can get a FREE FOBT kit simply by asking your healthcare provider for one. If you don't have a healthcare provider, or require information on how to get your take-home FOBT kit, call the INFO line at 1.866.410.5853.
PSA (Prostate Specific Antigen Testing)
The PSA test is used to determine your level of PSA, a protein. Most men have some PSA in their blood. Finding a high level of PSA may mean that the prostate gland is enlarged, infected, inflamed, or cancerous. Men at a low risk for prostate cancer but who are over age 50 should discuss having a test with their doctor. Men at a high risk should begin regular testing at a younger age to allow early detection and possibly prevent problems with the prostate gland.
In some cases, the PSA test will be covered by OHIP. Please review the information from the Ontario Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care below and discuss the test with your healthcare provider.
"Effective January 1, 2009, PSA testing for diagnosing or monitoring purposes will be an insured service in the community laboratory sector, as follows. If you have been diagnosed with, or are receiving treatment for, or are being followed after treatment for prostate cancer, the PSA test is available at no charge at a community laboratory (covered by OHIP). It will continue to be free of charge at a hospital laboratory (covered through the hospital's global budget)."
"When a healthcare practitioner suspects prostate cancer because of your medical history, race and/or the results of your physical examination (including digital rectal examination), PSA testing is available at no charge at a community laboratory (covered by OHIP). It will continue to be free of charge at a hospital laboratory (covered through the hospital’s global budget)."
—Bulletin 4488, December 17, 2008.
