Mobile Mammograms - Mt. Evans Hospice

MOBILE MAMMOGRAMS OFFERED AT

EVERGREEN’S MT. EVANS HOSPICE JUNE 24

            A mobile mammography unit from Exempla St. Joseph Hospital will provide mammography screenings for the public on Wednesday, June 24, at Mt. Evans Hospice & Home Health Care (3081 Bergen Peak Dr., Evergreen). Screenings are by appointment only, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

            Breast cancer is the second leading cause of death from cancer among American women, and early detection is essential in successful treatment. A mammogram (an X-ray of the breast) can often find tumors before they can be detected by other means.

            “Mammography plays a central part in early detection of breast cancer because it can show changes in the breast up to two years before a patient or physician can feel them,” says Louisa Walthers, Mt. Evans Hospice executive director. “Bringing mobile mammography to Evergreen is a way we can help mountain-area women get the preventive care they need.”

            The mobile mammography program is intended to make receiving a mammogram affordable and accessible to women, whether or not they have health insurance. Women with insurance may receive a mammogram through the mobile mammography program if they meet the qualifications outlined by their insurer. The insurance company will be billed and co-pays are collected (if required by the insurance company) at the time of service. Those without insurance, or whose insurance does not cover the service, will be charged on a sliding-scale basis.

            To make an appointment, call Mt. Evans at 303-674-6400. If you have questions about mammography screening or the mobile mammography program, call Exempla St. Joseph at 303-837-6667.

GENERAL GUIDELINES

·         Screening mammography is typically for women 40 years of age and older. Younger women with a family history (typically mother or sister) can qualify for a screening.

·         Women with breast implants are not screened on the Mobile Mammography Unit (MMU). The MMU provides a screening mammogram, and women with implants require a diagnostic mammogram. Also, women who are experiencing pain, lumps, discharge, or nipple inversion are encouraged to have a diagnostic mammogram. If needed, MMU staff can place women in contact with appropriate providers.

·         Mammograms are not recommended for pregnant women. Also, it is recommended that a woman wait a few months after breastfeeding ceases before having a mammogram.

·         Women who believe they may already have symptoms of breast cancer should see a health care provider immediately.