Same-day mammogram results begin



Patients with negative results can immediately schedule biopsies.
By LAURE CIOFFI
VINDICATOR PENNSYLVANIA STAFF
HERMITAGE, Pa. -- Women seeking diagnostic mammograms at UPMC facilities in Mercer County won't have to wait long for their results.
The health system announced Wednesday it is now offering same-day results for women who get mammograms because of a detected lump or family history. Those having yearly mammograms will still get their results about a week later from their family physician.
"Breast cancer impacts one in eight women, and one of the most difficult parts is the wait after a mammogram," said Kimberly Lombardi, director of the Womancare Center of UPMC Horizon.
All facilities
The press conference announcing the same-day results was held at the Womancare Center in Hermitage, but Lombardi said the service will be offered at all UPMC facilities in the county. Lombardi estimates each UPMC facility sees an average of 10 diagnostic mammograms each day, in addition to the dozens that are annual visits.
UPMC Horizon Radiologist Dr. Ronald Brennan said he often has the results the day of a mammogram, but a patient does not see the results because they are sent to the physician who ordered the test. It could take up to a week before the patient gets those results from her physician, he said.
Early action
Dr. Gina Micchia, medical director of the Womancare Center, said the same-day results will allow patients to immediately schedule a biopsy for negative results. Early detection and action are the key to high survival rates, she added.
The physicians warn that not all breast lesions are detected by a mammogram and women are still encouraged to continue with self-exams and physician exams.
Those getting their results that day will be given a "report card" detailing the procedure, findings and recommendation. The program is affiliated with Magee-Womens Hospital in Pittsburgh.
UPMC also announced that is once again teaming up with Family Planning Services of Mercer County to offer free breast and cervical cancer screenings at Family Planning offices. The screenings are available to women 50 and older who meet income guidelines. For details, call any Family Planning office.
cioffi@vindy.com

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