How far in advance do I need before making an appointment?
At Breastnet, we are committed to being the most responsive radiology center in Arizona. While with some centers it can take weeks to get an appointment, we can usually schedule your appointment within 72 hours of your call. In the case of an emergency, we see you within 24 hours.
Do I need a doctor referral to make an appointment?
Depending on the reason you are having an exam, the type of exam you are scheduling and what your insurance covers, a referral is sometimes required. It is best to call our office if you have a question concerning a referral.
How long does a mammogram take?
A mammogram exam takes approximately 15 minutes to complete. Films are then processed, interpreted by the radiologist and analyzed with CAD within 30 minutes. Try to have an hour available when making your appointment. Because our policy is to perform any needed additional tests at the time of this visit, occasionally there can be some delay in seeing you. If this happens, we will keep you informed.
How long will it take for my doctor to receive the results of my test?
Because all exams are completed in our office by our physicians, your results are made available to you at the conclusion of your appointment. They can be sent to your physician within 24 hours of your exam. In case of an unexpected finding, we send the results the same day.
Who conducts mammograms?
At Breastnet, all exams are completed by female mammography technologists with more than 15 years of experience each.
Who will discuss the results of my test with me?
Our Breastnet physicians sit down with you upon the conclusion of your exam and review the results of your test immediately. When you leave Breastnet, you will have your results.
What happens if a problem is found after reviewing the mammogram results?
If a suspicious area is discovered, we perform additional views and ultrasound immediately, your time allowing. If a biopsy is needed, we can often schedule you right away for this, but always within 24 hours. Breastnet offers a full range of needle biopsy options including stereotactic and ultrasound-guided core biopsies.
Do mammograms hurt?
Mammograms do not typically hurt, however, at traditional radiology centers where technologists do not specialize in mammography, there can be some discomfort due to the way they are conducted. At Breastnet, we specialize in breast health and breast care, creating an environment where there is little discomfort to our patients. The equipment used at Breastnet minimizes the pulling and pinching of the breast tissue, making the exam that much more comfortable.
What do I need to do to prepare for my mammogram?
We ask that you do not use any deodorant, powder, perfume or lotion on the day of your mammogram. We also recommend wearing a two-piece outfit, as we have shirt-type gowns that you will be asked to wear for your exam. No other preparation is necessary.
Do you consult and treat women of all ages?
Yes, we assist women of all ages. On some occasions when young women reach puberty, a worrisome lump occurs in the breast that requires examination. We also work with these situations to relieve the worry.
At what age do you recommend a woman get her first mammogram?
According to the American Cancer Society, women age 40 and older should have a screening mammogram every year and should continue to do so for as long as they are in good health. It is also recommended that women in their 20s and 30s have a clinical breast examination as part of a periodic health exam by a health professional preferably every 2 or 3 years. Women with increased risk should talk with their doctors about the benefits and limitations of starting screening when they are younger, having additional tests (such as breast ultrasound or MRI), or having more frequent exams.
Is a mammogram an x-ray?
A mammogram is a way to screen for early breast cancer or other breast disorders. The low dose x-rays are essentially confined to the breast. During the exam, the breasts are placed on a shelf-type platform and compressed for a few brief seconds while the x-ray is taken.
What type of payments are accepted at Breastnet?
We accept MasterCard, Visa, American Express, Debit Cards, checks or cash.
What insurance plans are accepted?
Because Breastnet does not contract directly with any insurance companies, we will assist you with all the necessary paperwork so that you can submit the claim to your insurance provider. Most insurance companies reimburse for out-of-network services. We do, however, accept Medicare, only if Medicare is the primary coverage. Patient pays additional 20 percent if there is no secondary insurance available.
How much radiation will I be exposed to when having a diagnostic procedure?
With the advancement of technology today, mammograms require a very low dose of radiation. In fact, it is said that a frequent flyer will experience more radiation than most of us will ever experience through diagnostic imaging. Due to the expertise of our technologists, the minimum number of images are obtained, making the need for repeated exams rare.
How long does an ultrasound take?
Most ultrasound exams take 10 to 30 minutes, depending on the complexity of the breast tissue.
Is it necessary to have an ultrasound when coming in for a mammogram?
An ultrasound becomes part of the work up if there is a problem such as a lump, pain in a dense breast, nipple discharge, or there is a new or unexplained finding on the mammogram. Some patients with dense breast tissue may benefit from a screening ultrasound.
How do digital mammograms differ from conventional film?
Digital mammograms differ from conventional mammography in that it allows the images to be viewed on a monitor instead of being developed on film. Positioning the patient for the study is still the same. Compression is still an important aspect and necessary to acquire a good diagnostic image.
What is the difference between calcifications and lumps in regards to ultrasound?
Generally, calcifications are diagnosed on a mammogram and magnification views. Breast lumps are diagnosed on routine mammograms, compression views and ultrasound. Calcifications can be an early indication of breast cancer and cannot be seen on ultrasound.