Most women have heard about the importance of getting annual screening mammograms starting at age 40. But many of us may think it makes little difference where we choose to get a mammogram. Aren’t they the same anywhere you go?
Not necessarily. For two main reasons: the level of technology and expertise of the chosen provider. An accredited breast health facility will have a variety of diagnostic and advanced imaging capabilities, including 3D digital mammography, breast MRIs, breast biopsies, and breast ultrasounds. These precise imaging techniques will ensure clear images are captured, which makes early detection easier and reduces the need for additional imaging appointments. With something as potentially lifesaving as a breast cancer screening, it’s essential to use advanced technology. Since most insurance providers cover 100% of the cost, why wouldn’t you want the best medical attention available?
Breast Tissue Density & Your Health
What’s more, not all breast tissue is the same. A breast health expert can determine the density of your breast tissue from mostly soft and fatty to extremely dense. The denser the breast tissue, the more difficult it is to detect cancer. Women with very dense breasts are 4-5 times more likely to get breast cancer than women with fatty breast tissue. Qualified breast health clinicians can determine if a patient needs a breast MRI or ultrasound to provide a thorough screening. Sometimes, a routine non-mammogram scan can indicate the presence of dense breast tissue, and the FDA has recently ruled that imaging providers must notify patients and their doctors when this occurs. At SJRA, we have always taken this proactive step to protect our patient’s health.
Radiologists Subspecialized in Breast Imaging
In addition to advanced diagnostic equipment and ensuring you are getting a breast tissue assessment; the medical professional who is reading your mammogram is another major consideration. At SJRA, our dedicated mammography and ultrasound technologists are highly trained experts in obtaining only the highest quality images. This level of expertise makes a difference between early detection of breast cancer and a missed diagnosis. In comparison to the national average, SJRA has a higher cancer detection rate of 31%.
Not all radiologists specialize in breast imaging. SJRA has dedicated radiologists who subspecialize in breast imaging. Our trained technologists can detect even the subtlest of changes in breast tissue year over year – up to 3 years before a lump can be felt. Our clinical experts not only conduct advanced screenings, but they will assess your risk factors and explain any potential diagnosis. We’re the breast health expert and are proud to be recognized as the region’s first Comprehensive Breast Imaging Center (CBIC) by the American College of Radiology (ACR).
Why Should I Choose South Jersey Radiology?
SJRA offers a fully integrated, diagnostic, and advanced imaging approach that ensures you are getting comprehensive breast care for life. As a breast health expert, we are available to provide women’s imaging studies including:
- 3D digital mammography
- Breast MRI and ultrasound
- Breast biopsies and treatment options
- Breast tissue density assessment
With 11 convenient locations, plus evening and weekend hours, SJRA makes it easy to prioritize your breast health around your busy schedule. Screenings take only 15 minutes or less. If you are ready to schedule your annual screening mammogram, reach out to one of the following locations:
- Cherry Hill Office – Cherry Hill, NJ
- Haddonfield Office – Haddonfield, NJ
- Marlton (Greentree) Office – Marlton, NJ
- Moorestown Office – Moorestown, NJ
- Turnersville Office – Turnersville, NJ
- West Deptford Office – West Deptford, NJ
- Willingboro Office – Willingboro, NJ
- Women’s Center at Cross Keys – Sewell, NJ
- Women’s Center at Medford – Medford, NJ
- Women’s Center at Mount Laurel – Mount Laurel, NJ
- Women’s Center at Voorhees – Voorhees Township, NJ
Learn more about the board-certified, subspecialized radiologists who read and interpret studies at SJRA here.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, not all women’s imaging centers are the same. The level of technology and expertise of the provider can vary. An accredited breast health facility with advanced imaging capabilities, such as 3D digital mammography, breast MRIs, ultrasounds, and biopsies, can ensure clear images and early detection of breast cancer. Using advanced technology is essential for a potentially lifesaving screening.
Breast tissue density can vary from mostly soft and fatty to extremely dense. The denser the breast tissue, the more challenging it is to detect cancer. Women with very dense breasts are at a higher risk. Qualified breast health experts can assess breast density and determine if additional imaging, such as a breast MRI or ultrasound, is necessary for a thorough screening.
The expertise of the radiologist reading your mammogram is important. Subspecialized radiologists who focus on breast imaging have the training to detect even subtle changes in breast tissue, sometimes up to 3 years before a lump can be felt. At SJRA, our dedicated radiologists with expertise in breast imaging contribute to a higher cancer detection rate compared to the national average.
SJRA offers a fully integrated approach to breast care with advanced imaging services, including 3D digital mammography, breast MRI, ultrasound, biopsies, and breast tissue density assessment. Our team of breast health experts provides comprehensive care and is recognized as the region’s first Comprehensive Breast Imaging Center (CBIC) by the American College of Radiology (ACR). With convenient locations and flexible scheduling, we help you prioritize your breast health. Screenings typically take 15 minutes or less.