How do I schedule my mammogram?
- Contact your physician to obtain an order for your mammogram.
- To schedule a mammogram at the Joyce Murtha Breast Care Center, call 814-467-3438 or toll free 1-877-232-0801.
- When scheduling your mammogram, inform the health care professional if you have breast implants, have had previous biopsies or surgeries, and/or are in need of any assistance.
- If a previous mammogram or any other breast imaging was done at a facility other than Joyce Murtha Breast Care Center, request those images be sent to the center to avoid any delay in interpretation.
Will my insurance pay for a mammogram?
- Most insurance plans cover a mammogram every 12 months starting at age 40.
- You may want to check with your insurance carrier regarding its mammography coverage guidelines prior to making your appointment.
- The Joyce Murtha Breast Care Center participates in the Mammogram Voucher Program which provides mammograms and follow-up diagnostic services to uninsured and underinsured women of our community. The program is funded by a grant from the Pittsburgh Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure. To see if you qualify call
1-888-MVP-0505.
- Please call the Joyce Murtha Breast Care Center at 814-467-0044 or toll free 1-866-253-4703 if you have any questions or need assistance with paying for a mammogram.
How do I prepare for a Mammogram?
- On the day of your mammogram do not apply any deodorant, perfume, powders, or ointments to the breasts or under your arms. The products can interfere with the quality of the imaging.
- Bring your mammography prescription from your doctor to your appointment, as well as your health insurance card and driver’s license for registration.
What will happen during the mammogram?
Your breast will be positioned on a platform and will be gradually compressed so that all breast tissue can be seen and small abnormalities are not obscured. The compression of your breast may be uncomfortable but compression aids in diagnosis.
All mammograms done here at the Joyce Murtha Breast Care Center are performed by technologists who are certified by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists and who have an additional certification in mammography.
What will happen after the mammogram?
The radiologist will review and interpret your images. A report will be sent to your referring physician. Your physician will contact you to discuss the results. You will also receive a formal letter in the mail explaining your test results and any suggested follow-up from the radiologist within a few days following your mammogram.
If an abnormality is detected, what happens next?
If you receive an abnormal test result that means a breast change was found. It may be benign (not cancer), premalignant (may become cancer), or cancer. It is important to get all of the follow-up tests your physician recommends for you.
