MOBILE MAMMOGRAM CLINIC

FAQ’S and other important information prior to arrival

FAQs

What is a Mammogram?

Simply said, as we age, our risk for cancer increases exponentially. A routine, non-invasive procedure known as a mammogram is one of the most pivotal tools to preventing the unchecked growth of cancerous tissue in breasts.

The process of a mammogram consists of taking an external x-ray of a patient’s breasts in order to identify abnormalities, such as lumps or masses which may turn out to be cancerous and deadly tumors. Mammograms can identify tumors up to 2-3 years before primary care doctors would identify them via physical exams.

Between 35 and 39 years of age, women receive their first mammogram.

After women reach 40, primary care doctors strongly recommend yearly mammograms.

Mammograms can be uncomfortable to sit through, especially for the first time.

Who qualifies for receiving a mammogram?

Patients are accepted regardless of immigration status or health insurance coverage.

In order to qualify for receiving a screening mammogram at the mobile van, you must:

  • Be over 35 years of age

  • Have had your last mammogram more than one year ago, with normal results

  • Have had your last mammogram more than one year ago with abnormal results

  • Have had breast biopsy or surgery more than two years ago and have been told to resume annual mammogram screenings

  • Have had a breast biopsy less than two years ago, but have had a normal mammogram screening since

Who does NOT Qualify for Receiving a Mammogram on the Van?

Although patients fitting into the following categories are discouraged from using the van, as it only offers screening mammograms, they are strongly encouraged to complete their diagnostic mammogram screening at a diagnostic facility, such as through your OBGYN or Hartford Healthcare.

  • Patients with a previous history of breast cancer within the past three years

  • Patients who have had prior breast surgery (not fitting into the criterion for qualifications above)

  • Pregnant patients

  • Breastfeeding patients

  • Patients with breast implants

  • Symptomatic patients (i.e. patients who have active masses or lumps. Strongly encouraged instead to book a diagnostic mammogram)

What Should I Expect on the Day of the Procedure?

Please arrive several minutes early for your designated appointment time. Remove and stow away all metal jewelry and other metal objects which may interfere with the x-ray machine.

The procedure should take about 15 minutes.

The morning of the procedure, please DO NOT apply the following to your entire chest area:

  • Deodorant

  • Lotions/creams

  • Powders

  • Ointments

Please wear a two piece outfit (a top and pants): you will be undressed only from the waist up for the procedure.

Please remove all metal jewelry and other adornments, as they may interfere with the x-ray machine.

What will I need on the day of the procedure?

Sufficient personal information is needed to complete the patient intake form, which asks for things like name, birth date, demographic information, employment information, physician information, and social security number and insurance information, if applicable.

  • Images/film of any previous mammograms the patient has had (but if you do not have these, a baseline mammogram will be conducted anyway)

  • Photo ID or other means of identification