As part of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we shine a spotlight on Dr Fiona Chambers, Clinical Director for BreastScreen South, based at Pacific Radiology’s Canterbury Breastcare clinic.
Dr Fiona Chambers
Fiona has worked in radiology for more than 15 years, specialising in breast and obstetrics and gynaecology imaging.
In her role as Clinical Director, Fiona is involved with quality assurance, multidisciplinary and national collaboration with colleagues in Breastscreen Aotearoa and helping contribute to the future of breast imaging in New Zealand.
Fiona was attracted to breast imaging because of the regular patient contact, the complexity of mixed modality interpretation and the opportunity to make a real difference. As she puts it, “the challenge of interpreting mammography and knowing I can directly affect the outcome for an individual patient by detecting their cancer early is a strong motivator for me.”
Fiona sees Breast Cancer Awareness Month as a chance to highlight the importance of the work the Canterbury Breastcare and Breastscreen South teams do every day. One thing she wishes is that more people were aware that screening is for patients without symptoms. “It’s an opportunity to remind people why screening matters - and that it’s for patients without symptoms,” she explains. “If you notice a lump, puckering, or nipple discharge, you need diagnostic imaging instead.” While both types of imaging may involve mammography, Fiona notes that “the approach and outcomes can be quite different.”
She also wishes there was more public awareness about breast density and how it affects mammogram interpretation. “Women with extremely dense breasts are significantly more likely to have cancers missed on mammography,” she says.
Of course, in this field, Fiona often navigates sensitive conversations with patients. She says empathy is key, enabling her to support patients through vulnerable moments alongside a dedicated team who are known for their care and compassion.
Outside of work, Fiona enjoys knitting and sewing her own clothes, tramping in the New Zealand wilderness, and wide-ranging discussions at her book club - a balance that helps her recharge and keep perspective.
