Question: Why does one have to wait months for a mammogram?
From: Diane W. of Oreland, PA
Answer: I’m not sure that there is one answer for every mammography center. I would hope that the main reason is that more and more women are scheduling their mammograms and heeding the recommendations for early detection. Please note that there are regular screening mammograms as well as diagnostic mammograms being done. The regular screening is usually done annually to ensure that there are no irregularities. A diagnostic mammogram is performed to evaluate a new abnormality or in follow-up for a past abnormality. I have had a few friends and relatives who had diagnostic mammograms and the radiologist was able to interpret the study immediately. Since 10/94, mammography centers must be certified by the U.S. FDA in order to perform, interpret, and develop the studies. They may be located in hospitals, outpatient clinics, or physicians’ offices. Many facilities accept self-referral (but not all). If your facility does, you do not need a physician’s referral. Remember to check with your insurance company, however, as some insurance plans do require a physician’s prescription to cover the mammogram. Medicare covers an annual screening for all women age 40 and over who have Medicare. Medicare pays for one baseline study for women between 35 and 39 who have Medicare. Medicare also covers digital technologies for screening mammograms. There is no Part B deductible but the 20% coinsurance or co-pay applies.
Ruthann Russo, PhD, JD, MPH, RHIT, is a healthcare expert with more than 20 years of experience working in and advising healthcare organizations.
