If you’re new to the Jacksonville area, finding the right healthcare is likely at the top of your to-do list.
Precision Imaging has your preventative screenings covered. Here’s what you need to know about our services so you can take charge of your breast health.
Prompt Attention
We know that early detection saves lives. That’s why we offer prompt, efficient, patient-first care that makes earlier detection and better treatment options possible.
Women at average risk for breast cancer should get a mammogram every year beginning at age 40. Women who are at a higher risk of breast cancer should talk with their doctor about when it is best to start having mammograms.
For most women, a mammogram is the best way to detect breast cancer as early as possible. The screening uses low-dose x-rays to create an image of the breast tissue. It often detects lumps that are too small to be felt.
Personalized Care
Each of our patients is unique, from their health history to their environment. That’s why we never use a cookie-cutter approach to healthcare. Our doctors give each patient a holistic, comprehensive plan that helps ensure the best possible outcome.
We offer precision-focused healthcare with your individual needs in mind. And we focus on making the experience as stress-free as possible.
State-of-the-art Technology
We have the technology to back up our commitment to you. By partnering with HALO Diagnostics, we are able to offer equipment that meets the American Cancer of Radiology’s highest standards for quality and safety in medical imaging and can significantly reduce scan times.
Our 3D mammography is capable of detecting 41 percent more invasive cancers than previous mammograms.
Convenience
Residents of Florida’s First Coast have long faced long screening times, unnecessary callbacks, and increased costs at local hospital systems.
We offer an alternative—high-quality imaging, unparalleled care, convenient hours, and same-day diagnoses in many cases—all at a cost as low as half the price of local hospitals.
Precision Imaging Centers powered by HALO Diagnostics has four area locations: Jacksonville, Jacksonville Beach, Fleming Island, and St. Augustine.
What to Expect on Your First Visit
Even though only about two to four screening mammograms in 1,000 lead to breast cancer diagnoses, your first mammogram can be stressful. However, knowing what to expect can help put your mind more at ease.
Here are some suggestions to help you prepare for your mammogram:
- Schedule your mammogram for the week after your menstrual period. That is the time of the month when your breasts tend to be less tender, so you’ll feel more comfortable during the procedure.
- Do not use deodorant, powder, perfume, lotion, or ointment around the chest area on the day of your appointment, as they might show up as trouble spots on the x-ray. You may wish to schedule your test in the morning and bring along an antiperspirant to apply afterward.
- Wear a two-piece outfit. That way, you need only remove your top for the procedure. Your technologist will provide you with a gown to wear.
The entire procedure should take about 20 minutes. Each of your breasts will be compressed for only 20 to 30 seconds. While this compression can be a bit uncomfortable, this spreading and flattening of the breast tissue help give a clear view of the breast and reduce the amount of radiation needed to make the images.
Our radiologist will review your x-rays and send your doctor a report. If it is your first mammogram, your doctor will not have previous images for comparison. As a result, your doctor may request another mammogram to evaluate any suspicious or unclear findings.
In most cases, these findings are benign cysts or areas of dense tissue. There is a chance your doctor may recommend a breast ultrasound to investigate an area of concern further.
What to Tell your Technologist
To help ensure a high-quality mammogram, inform your technologist of any of the following:
- If you have breast implants
- If you’re experiencing any breast changes or problems
- If you are breastfeeding or might be pregnant
- If you have any difficulty standing and holding still
- If you feel lightheaded or dizzy during the mammogram
A screening mammogram typically involves two views of each breast. More images may be needed in some cases, such as for women who have larger breasts or who have breast implants.
For a 3D mammogram (also called digital breast tomosynthesis or DBT), the procedure is nearly the same as described above. However, the equipment will move in a slight arc over the top of your breast or along the side of your breast to take the images. Your technologist might ask you to hold your breath briefly to help capture clear images.
When to Expect Results
After you depart from our facility, a specialist will examine all of your images and, in most cases, you will get a call from your doctor with your results within roughly 10 days. If you don’t hear from your physician, you should give them a call.
Contact Us
Precision Imaging is dedicated to a preventive, precision-focused approach to healthcare, helping you take control of your health. If you have any questions about having a mammogram or would like to make an appointment at one of our four locations (Jacksonville, Jacksonville Beach, Fleming Island, and St. Augustine, Florida.), we welcome your call at (904) 996-8100. Or feel free to use the contact form below to get in touch with our team!