What age should I start mammography?
Current recommendations are to start annual screening at age 40. Patients that have a mom or sister with pre-menopausal breast cancer should start screening 10 years prior to that of their family member's diagnosis. Example, if Mom was diagnosed at age 45, daughter should start screening at 35.
Do I need screening or diagnostic mammography?
Diagnostic mammography is for women that are having a problem that has been reported to their physician and/or for close follow-up after having breast cancer. Diagnostic mammography requires a physician order. Unless you are having an issue such as a lump, bloody discharge, questionable infection or a follow-up to a prior mammogram that questioned an area, you may have a screening mammogram.
Will my insurance cover my mammogram?
Most insurance plans cover a screening annually or every two years at 100%. However, deductibles and out of pocket expenses vary per insurance company for diagnostic mammography. Call your insurance company to see if your mammogram is covered.
When and how is ultrasound used?
An ultrasound exam is used in conjunction with a mammogram for patients over 30 that may have a suspicious lump. The ultrasound will determine if the mammogram is showing a cystic or solid mass. Women under 30 are required to have an ultrasound exam rather than a mammogram to complete studies unless the radiologist decides it's necessary to receive a mammogram.