By Sergio Dromi, MD
In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness month, Proscan Women’s Imaging at NCH would like to address some potential questions regarding breast cancer screening. Our goal is to provide comprehensive breast health imaging with exceptional patient care. We are excited to announce the addition of our state of the art imaging facility at 2320 Vanderbilt Beach Road scheduled to open in the month of October where we will be able to offer the same exemplary care in a beautiful new setting.
The Importance of Prior Mammogram Images
A question we often encounter from multiple new patients visiting our practice is why do we ask for prior images when they could easily just get a new mammogram without going through the arduous process of requesting images from another facility. Having the patient’s prior mammogram imaging for comparison is paramount in providing the best patient care. To assist patients with the process, our facility will ask them to sign a release form at the end of their screening mammogram visit which will allow us to request their prior images from the previous imaging center and help the radiologist to interpret their mammogram when images are received.
Some reasons why having a patient’s prior images are so important:
Reduces unnecessary callbacks
Every patient has a unique distribution of fibroglandular tissue. Comparison with old mammograms allows radiologists to distinguish between normal fibroglandular breast tissue and breast cancer. Both of these can appear similar in mammography. To ensure stability of tissue distribution is key while interpreting a mammogram to reduce the chances of call back.
Save costs from false-positive results
Having more than one mammogram due to new findings seen on a screening mammogram without comparison not only increases emotional distress and time demand but also costs. Obtaining prior images may help you cut back on expenses from additional images and possible biopsies.
Accuracy of results
Studies have shown that having prior mammograms available for comparison may help radiologists identify any new changes that may indicate early signs of cancer.
Questions about Family History
Our mammogram technologists inquire about patients’ personal and family medical history to assess for any changes since their last visit to ensure we have the most updated information and therefore can make the most appropriate recommendations for their care based upon their individual risk for developing breast cancer. This data helps to assess the need for genetic counseling/testing or further breast imaging if necessary.
Paying for Screening Mammogram
Proscan Women’s Imaging at NCH does not want cost to present a barrier in getting the appropriate breast cancer screening. If patients have a question about how to cover the cost of a screening mammogram, they are encouraged to inquire about our financial assistance options.
Sergio Dromi, MD
Director of Breast Imaging
Dr. Sergio Dromi worked at the Radiology Department of the National Institutes of Health for five years researching multiple mechanisms for improvement of medication delivery in cancer care. Dr. Dromi is board certified by the American College of Radiology, completing his residency at Georgetown University Hospital (Washington D.C.) as well as his fellowship in Women/Breast Imaging.
He has worked with the University of Maryland Medical Systems as Section Chief of Breast Imaging and Assistant Professor in the Diagnostic Radiology Department. Most recently, Dr. Dromi was the Director of Breast Imaging at Memorial Health Hospital/
University of Mercer in Savannah, GA.
Dr. Dromi will lead our Women’s Imaging services for ProScan/NCH. His interests include medical education, quality improvement and leading women’s imaging in clinical, technological, and operational advancements to facilitate earlier diagnosis and detection.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, please call 239-624-4443 proscan.com