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Early detection saves lives: Schedule your 3D mammogram today

October 19, 2021

About one in eight women in the United States will develop breast cancer in her lifetime, and nearly 85% of breast cancer diagnoses occur in women with no family history of the disease. 

Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among American women, and in 2021, it’s estimated that around 30% of newly diagnosed cancers in women will be breast cancers. Also this year, an estimated 43,600 women nationally are expected to die from the disease. Yet even with such alarming statistics, many women delay—or avoid entirely—regular mammogram screenings that could protect their health and save their lives. 

That’s why it’s so important to take advantage of the fact that Ely-Bloomenson Community Hospital offers three-dimensional (3D) mammography at its state-of-the-art Diagnostic Imaging Center.

3D mammography combines multiple breast X-rays to create a three-dimensional picture of the breast. This imaging test, called breast tomosynthesis, only takes a few seconds longer than a standard 2D mammogram and does not require any additional compressions.

According to the Mayo Clinic, the benefits of 3D mammograms include:

  • Reducing the need for follow-up imaging when combined with a standard mammogram 
  • Detecting more cancers than a standard mammogram alone
  • Improving cancer detection in dense breast tissue

Many private insurers and Medicare are now covering 3D mammography; before your appointment, check if your carrier covers the cost:

  • Call your insurance company and provide them with CPT Code 77063 to find out if a 3D screening mammogram is covered under your policy or as part of your deductible 

Even if your insurance company does not cover 3D mammography, the imaging test is still the best weapon in the battle against breast cancer. When you choose a 3D mammogram, we will bill your insurance, and upon denial of payment, you can expect to receive a bill for $140, including a 12% discount applied with payment in full. 

Whether you choose the standard 2D mammogram or a new 3D mammogram, mammography is a critical tool for early detection of breast cancer and is recommended for women, starting at age 40. If you have a history of breast cancer in your family, your provider may recommend starting the screenings at a younger age. October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month; schedule your mammogram today by calling our Diagnostic Imaging Center at 218-365-8737.