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I am going to St. Vincent's for...
Mammography
Before you arrive
You MUST have a primary care doctor to send the results of your mammogram to BEFORE you have your mammogram. Insurance precertifications must be taken care of before scheduling the appointment.
If you are scheduled for a mammogram at St. Vincent's:
- If you have sensitive breasts, try scheduling your mammogram at a time of the month when they will be least tender. Try to avoid the week right before your period. This will help lessen the discomfort.
- Try to limit the amount of deodorant, powder or lotion that you use on the day of your mammogram. We will provide you with baby wipes to remove these items before your exam because they may interfere with the quality of the mammogram.
- Bring a list of the places where and dates when you have had mammograms, biopsies or other breast treatments.
What to bring
It is important that you remember to bring your insurance card, a photo ID, and a diagnostic order from your physician, if applicable.
Where to go
St. Vincent's performs mammograms in the North Tower Imaging Center located in Suite 400 of the North Tower on St. Vincent's campus.
Mammograms are also performed at St. Vincent's One Nineteen Health and Wellness .
Parking
Patients and visitors to the North Tower Imaging Center should park in the North Tower parking deck. A map of the hospital campus and parking areas can be found here .
Why do I need to update my health history every year? It is important for the physician to be aware of any changes and additions to you health history since your last mammogram. These changes can sometimes affect your diagnosis.
Why do I need a doctor’s order? If you are having any breast symptoms, it is required by the insurance companies that you have a physician order.
What does it mean when my mammograms are "double read"?
All mammograms at St. Vincent's are "double read", which means that two radiologists read the mammogram independently. Double reading significantly increases accuracy and cancer detection rate.
When should I have a mammogram?
As recommended by the American Cancer Society, women should have an annual mammogram beginning at age 40. Women at increased risk (e.g. family history, genetic tendency, past breast cancer) should talk with their doctor about the benefits and limitations of starting mammography screening earlier, having additional tests (e.g. breast ultrasound or MRI), or having more frequent exams.
What is Digital Mammography?
The new Digital Mammography System from GE Medical Systems changes breast care with new efficiencies for physicians and peace of mind for patients through its speed and reliable electronic information.
How does Computer-Aided Detection enhance my mammogram?
Computer-Aided Detection (CAD), as the name implies, uses a computer to analyze mammograms. The computer does not replace the radiologist who would normally read the mammograms, it merely acts as a "second-opinion" for the physician. It can alert the radiologist to take a closer look at subtle warning signs that might be easily missed.
Women requesting a mammogram under the age of 35 must have an order from their physician before scheduling their mammogram.
Financial Arrangements
If you do not have insurance, please contact the Business Office prior to your admission at (205) 838-3910 and ask for a financial counselor. Call between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Based on your insurance coverage, you may be asked to pay your deductible or co-pay at the time of registration. Payment can be made using cash, check or credit card.
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