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Tips for Getting a Mammogram
A mammogram is an important step in taking care of yourself and your breasts. Whether you’re a mammogram newbie or a veteran, knowing what to expect may help the process go more smoothly.
Don’t be afraid of mammograms! Remember that only about 2 to 4 screening mammograms in 1,000 lead to a diagnosis of breast cancer. What to tell your technologistTo help ensure you have a good quality mammogram, make sure your technologist knows:
Tell the technologist right away if you start feeling lightheaded or dizzy during the mammogram. What to expect when getting a screening mammogram
What to expect when getting a diagnostic mammogramA diagnostic mammogram is often done if a woman has breast symptoms or if something unusual is seen on a screening mammogram. The basic procedure is similar to that for a screening mammogram, but there are some differences.
How will I get my mammogram results?A full report of the results of your mammogram will be sent to your health care provider. If you don’t hear from your health care provider within 10 days, do not assume that your mammogram was normal. Call your provider or the facility where the mammogram was done. The mammography facility also must provide you with an easy-to-understand summary of your mammogram results within 30 days—or “as quickly as possible” if the results suggest something abnormal is present. If you have online access to your medical records, such as through a patient portal, your results might show up there at the same time your health care provider gets them. This means you could get the results before your health care provider contacts you. Be sure to go over the results with your provider, especially if there's anything you don't understand. We can help you learn more about how to understand your mammogram report. American Cancer Society medical information is copyrighted material. For reprint requests, please see our Content Usage Policy. Mammograms
What is the best way to help a patient remember to schedule next years appointment?Use automated reminder texts to reduce no-shows
On the same note, an appointment reminder message is the best way to make sure patients show up on the day of their appointment. Even if you send out a scheduling confirmation, life gets busy, and appointments can easily slip through the cracks.
What is the best time to schedule a patient who needs a regular appointment such as a prenatal checkup?Ideally, prenatal care starts as soon as you think you're pregnant. Your health care provider might schedule prenatal care appointments about every four weeks throughout the second trimester.
When you are obtaining patient information for an appointment you should include the?Chapter 16. What type of scheduling places three patients in the office at the same time and they are seen in the order of their arrival?Wave Scheduling
In this method, a practice schedules three or four patients every thirty minutes. Then, the practitioner sees each patient in the order in which they arrive. Patients are seen in waves, meaning there is always a patient waiting to be seen.
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