• A screening mammogram is done once every year - no sooner than 366 days apart.
• Multiple pictures are taken by a technologist and read by a Radiologist at a later time - usually within 1-2 working days. That report is available on MyChart after it is read by a Radiologist.
• This is routine screening imaging, and is covered by insurance, usually with no copay/deductible or a $20 copay.
• A screening mammogram may be ordered only if there are no areas of concern in the breast on examination or on your last mammogram.
• If there is an abnormality on your screening mammogram, you may be called back for additional pictures - a “DIAGNOSTIC MAMMOGRAM” (see reverse). It is possible that your insurance company could choose to bill you for copay/deductible for the screening mammogram if it is abnormal.

• This exam is needed for complete evaluation of a breast problem - a breast mass or other abnormality found on examination or screening mammogram or for follow up after a recent breast biopsy.
• At the time of this type of mammogram, pictures are taken by a technologist and read by a Radiologist while you wait. If additional pictures are needed, they are taken at that time. Also, sometimes an ultrasound of an area will be done. You will be informed of the results before you leave.
• This is covered by your insurance, however copays and deductibles will apply.
• It is also common to have a diagnostic mammogram done for 3 to 5 years after a cancer diagnosis/surgery.
• Your imaging recommendations will be discussed with you by your breast surgeon.

The latest technology in mammograms is Breast Tomosynthesis (3D) mammography. Mammography is a specific type of breast imaging that uses low-dose x-rays to detect cancer early—before women experience symptoms—when it is most treatable. Mammography plays a central part in the early detection of breast cancers because it can show changes in the breast up to two years before you or your physician can feel them.

The American Medical Association (AMA) and the American College of Radiology (ACR) recommend annual mammograms for women over 40. The National Cancer Institute (NCI) adds that women who have a personal or family history of breast cancer should talk to their doctor about when they should begin screening.

At Middlesex Health, we’re proud to be the first health system in Connecticut to offer our patients the latest dual-headed Molecular Breast Imaging (MBI) technology. When potential problems are found during a mammogram, an MBI procedure can produce razor-sharp images of the breast to help the radiologist pinpoint the abnormality and determine its size, shape, location, and type.

MBI scans can identify potential problems that other techniques can miss and a better chance for early detection means a better chance for successful treatment. Furthermore, the test can be performed on an outpatient basis, with less radiation exposure and less discomfort—because the breast does not need to be compressed. To be a candidate for Molecular Breast Imaging, you must meet at least one of the following criteria:

• You must have dense breast tissue
• You must have a personal history of breast cancer
• You must have an inconclusive mammogram