The Canada Post labour disruption, which began on November 15th, is causing delays in cancer screening-related mail. This includes reminder letters and the mailing and return of fecal immunochemical test (FIT) kits, which are important tools for colorectal cancer screening. To minimize delays in your screenings and results, the Marathon Family Health Team (MFHT) encourages community members to take proactive steps and stay informed.

Screening Reminder Letter Delays

Patients in the Colon Cancer Check, Cervical Screening Program, or Ontario Breast Screening Program (OBSP) may experience delays in receiving reminder letters. If you think you are due for screening, contact the MFHT for confirmation or assistance by calling 807-229-3243 or emailing [email protected].

Managing Abnormal Results

Despite delays in mail delivery, measures are in place to ensure patients are notified about abnormal results:

• Breast Screening: OBSP sites will call patients with abnormal results to arrange follow-up care.
• Cervical Screening: Patients with abnormal results will not receive letters. Instead, your healthcare provider will contact you directly to discuss follow-up.

FIT Kit Delays and Return Instructions

For patients using FIT kits for colorectal cancer screening:

• FIT kits may take longer than usual to arrive after being ordered.
• Do not mail completed FIT kits during the labour disruption. Instead, drop them off at Wilson Memorial General Hospital by following these steps:
  1. Package and label your FIT kit as though you were mailing it.
  2. Drop it directly into the lab sample collection bin at the hospital. There is no need to register at the front desk.
  3. Submit your sample within 30 days of collection to avoid delays or needing to repeat the test.

Stay on Track with Cancer Screenings

Cancer screenings are an important part of staying healthy. If you have questions or need help, contact the MFHT team for support.

For more information about the Canada Post disruption and how it affects cancer screening, visit cancercareontario.ca/maildisruption.