Breast health screenings

Every day, we learn more about breast cancer and how to treat it. We know from clinical evidence that we have a distinct advantage with early detection. The earlier cancer is discovered and treated, the better your chances of survival.

Mammograms are the only test proven to decrease the chances of dying from breast cancer. Also, identifying your personal risk factors through our comprehensive and confidential risk assessment can help you take steps to reduce your risks of developing breast or other types of women’s cancer.

We use state-of-the-art technology at Goshen Retreat Women’s Health Center. Our breast tomosynthesis procedure offers significant advantages over traditional digital mammography. This technology allows physicians to view the breast as a 3-dimensional image, which can lead to higher cancer detection rates.

The facts about early detection

If breast cancer is detected before it spreads, the five-year survival rate jumps to 96 percent. And studies have shown that women between the ages of 50 and 69 who have regular mammograms may reduce their risk of death from breast cancer by one-third.

In a screening mammogram, we take two X-ray pictures of each breast. This imaging test can identify abnormalities, such as very small lumps, areas of calcification or other changes in the breast. According to the FDA, mammography can find 85 to 90 percent of breast cancers in women over 50 and discover a lump up to two years before it can be felt.

Make mammograms part of your routine

The American College of Radiology recommends mammograms once a year for women over the age of 40 and women under 40 with a family history of breast cancer.

Beyond regular screenings, a Breast Cancer Risk Assessment can help head off breast cancer before it becomes a threat – especially if you have no family history of the disease.

If you have an abnormal screening mammogram or detected lump, we may suggest a diagnostic mammogram as a follow-up procedure. Although the procedure is similar for both types of mammograms, a diagnostic test produces more images for greater clarification. Breast MRIs can be used in addition to a mammogram for women who are at a high risk for developing breast cancer.

We offer convenient appointment times for mammograms, including early morning, evening and some Saturday hours. You may walk in without an appointment for a first-available time. Mammogram appointments usually take about 30 minutes.

We can help

At the Retreat, we offer flexible hours to accommodate your schedule.

You do not need a physician's referral for a screening mammogram.

Financial assistance for screening mammograms is available for income eligible, medically underserved women.

For specific hours or to schedule your mammogram, please call (574) 364-4600.