Making An Appointment

The Saint Thomas Health Services Centers for Breast Health accepts payments from many insurance plans. If you have questions about referrals or insurance coverage, please call 284-PINK. We will be happy to assist you with these issues.

Hours:

• 7 a.m. -5 p.m. Monday through Friday
• To allow adequate time, the last scheduled appointment for screening is 4:20 p.m. Monday-Friday.

Referrals & Insurance Coverage

You may make an appointment directly with the Center for Breast Health (self referral) or have an appointment arranged through your doctor’s office (doctor referral). However, you may need a doctor referral to ensure insurance coverage for certain appointments and procedures. Check with your insurance provider to see if a doctor referral is needed and if reimbursement is available under your medical plan for our physicians and facility.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Some insurance providers require a specific waiting period before tests or procedures can be performed. For example, routine screening mammograms often are only reimbursed annually. Some other procedures require a six-month waiting period before additional testing will be reimbursed. Ask your insurance provider to explain these guidelines.

Services offered at the Saint Thomas Health Services Center for Breast Health are described under routine screening and specialized services.

How To Prepare For Your Mammogram

If you have previously had a mammogram performed at another clinic, have the reports and films sent or bring them with you to your examination.

Tell your Health Professional if you:

• Are or might be pregnant. A mammogram is an X-ray test with exposure to low-dose radiation and is not performed for routine screening during pregnancy.
• Are breast-feeding. A mammogram may not provide clear results in breasts that contain milk.
• Have breast implants. Breast implants require a modified mammogram method.
• Have previously had a breast biopsy. Knowing the location of scar tissue will help the radiologist read your mammogram accurately.

On the Day of the Mammogram

• Do not use any deodorant, perfume, powders, or ointments on your breasts. The residue left on your skin by these substances may interfere with the X-rays.
• Wear a two-piece outfit to easily undress above the waist.

If you are still having menstrual periods, you may want to have your mammogram performed within two weeks after your menstrual period ends. The procedure will be more comfortable, especially if your breasts become tender during this time.