A mammogram is an x-ray examination of the breast. A mammogram is a very useful tool in detecting signs of breast disease at an early stage. The actual mammogram procedure usually takes under 10 minutes to perform.
There are two types of mammograms:
The American Cancer Society recommends that women age 40 or over should get a screening mammogram every year.
A screening mammogram is an x-ray of the breast in a woman who has no symptoms of breast disease. Typically, two x-ray pictures are taken of each breast from different angles.
A screening mammogram is used to detect any lump or abnormalities that may be too small for the woman or her physician to feel. The earlier a lump can be found, the greater the chances of successful treatment.
A diagnostic mammogram is used to diagnose breast disease in a woman who has symptoms of breast disease or who has had an abnormal result on a screening mammogram. A diagnostic mammogram may involve taking more than two x-ray pictures of each breast in order to gain a higher image resolution.
This is often requested by the radiologist if images from the screening mammogram are not clear or if there is a suspicion of an abnormality on the screening mammogram. Diagnostic mammograms only image the area(s) of concern, not the entire breast.
Schedule a Mammogram
Mammograms, including digital mammography services, are available at all four Mercy Health System hospitals: Mercy Fitzgerald Hospital, Mercy Philadelphia Hospital, Mercy Suburban Hospital and Nazareth Hospital.
To schedule a mammogram at any of our hospitals, call 1.877.GO MERCY or contact one of the locations directly from the contact list on the right.
Walk-In Screening Mammograms Now Available
Mercy Fitzgerald Hospital and Mercy Philadelphia Hospital are proud to offer Walk-In Screening Mammograms every Thursday from 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Just bring your signed physician prescription, insurance card and photo ID.
Women with a history of breast cancer, breast surgery and breast implants are not eligible for the walk-in screening mammogram. Women preferring to schedule an appointment at Mercy Fitzgerald or Mercy Philadelphia Hospitals may do so by calling 1.610.237.2525.