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For Patients

Mammogram Preparation | Ultrasound Preparation | Breast MRI Preparation | Breast Biopsy Preparation | Forms | Images, Reports and Billing | FAQs

Breast Imaging Recommendations

The Women’s Imaging Center follows breast imaging recommendations from the American College of Radiology and the Society of Breast Imaging.

For women at average risk, annual screening mammography is generally recommended. Patients with additional risk factors may need earlier or additional screening based on their personal risk profile.

for patients

Preparing for Your Exam

Preparation instructions vary depending on the type of imaging exam you are having. Once your appointment is coordinated, our team will provide any necessary instructions for your specific exam.

Preparing for a Mammogram

Please do not wear deodorant, lotion, powder, or perfume under your arms or on your breasts on the day of your mammogram, as these products can affect the images.

Please tell the technologist if you are pregnant, may be pregnant, have breast symptoms, have had prior breast surgery, or have had breast imaging performed at another facility.

Preparing for an Ultrasound

Preparation for ultrasound depends on the type of exam being performed.

For some abdominal ultrasound exams, you may be asked not to eat or drink for several hours before your appointment.

For some pelvic or kidney ultrasound exams, you may be asked to drink fluids before your appointment so your bladder is full.

Our team will provide the specific preparation instructions needed for your exam.

Preparing for a Breast MRI

MRI preparation depends on the type of MRI exam ordered.

Before your appointment, please tell our team if you have:

  • An implanted medical device
  • Metal in your body
  • A pacemaker
  • A history of kidney disease
  • A contrast allergy
  • Claustrophobia
  • Any chance you may be pregnant

You may be asked to remove jewelry, watches, hairpins, hearing aids, removable dental work, or other metal/electronic items before the exam.

Our team will provide the specific MRI preparation requirements for your exam when your appointment is coordinated.

Preparing for a Breast Biopsy

Preparation for a breast biopsy depends on the type of biopsy being performed.

Before your appointment, please tell our team if you take aspirin, blood thinners, or other medications that may affect bleeding. Please also let us know about any allergies, recent illnesses, or medical conditions.

You may be asked to avoid certain medications before the procedure. Our team will provide instructions based on your specific biopsy type.

We ask that you arrange for someone to drive you home, especially if medication is used during your appointment or if you would prefer additional support afterward.

Forms

When your appointment is coordinated, our team will let you know which forms are needed for your exam.

If you would like to save time, you may print and complete forms before your visit and bring them with you. Forms may also be completed in-office if preferred.

Available forms may include:

Images and Reports

For a copy of your images or reports, please contact Medical Records at (360) 428-7275.  A completed medical release form may be required before records can be released.

Billing and Financial Services

For billing questions, payment information, or financial assistance inquiries, please contact our billing team at: (360) 428-7204

Appointment Requests/General Imaging

For appointment requests or general imaging questions, please call: (360) 428-7275

Frequently Asked Questions

Screening mammograms are reviewed by one of our board-certified radiologists. Your results are sent to your provider, and you will also receive a copy of your results.

Diagnostic mammography is reviewed during your visit, and additional mammogram images or breast ultrasound may be performed at the same appointment if needed. At the end of the workup, a radiologist may speak with you about your results.

Breast ultrasound is typically reviewed at the time of your visit following the scan.

Breast MRI studies are reviewed by one of our board-certified radiologists. Your results are sent to your referring provider, who will review the findings and next steps with you.

Your exam will be reviewed by a board-certified radiologist with specialized training in breast imaging.

A screening mammogram is performed when you do not currently have breast symptoms. It is used to look for early signs of breast changes.

A diagnostic mammogram is performed when there is a specific concern, such as a lump, focal pain, nipple changes, skin changes, or an abnormal finding on a prior imaging exam. Diagnostic imaging may include additional mammogram images and a breast ultrasound.

Some breast imaging exams require an order from your healthcare provider. If you are unsure whether an order is needed for your exam, please contact our office.

Please bring your photo ID, insurance card, and any information provided by your referring provider. If you have had prior breast imaging at another facility, please let our team know so comparison images can be requested if needed.

Prior images allow the radiologist to compare your current exam with previous breast imaging. This comparison can help identify whether a finding is new, stable, or changed over time. If prior images are needed from another facility, your results may take additional time.

Being called back does not necessarily mean there is cause for concern. It means the radiologist needs additional imaging to better evaluate an area seen on your screening mammogram. Additional mammogram images and/or breast ultrasound may be recommended.

Yes. Please let our team know if you have breast implants when scheduling and tell the technologist at the time of your exam. Additional images may be taken to better evaluate the breast tissue.

If you have a breast concern such as a lump, focal pain, nipple changes, or skin changes, please contact your healthcare provider. A diagnostic breast imaging exam may be recommended based on your symptoms.