Diagnostic Imaging Northwestin collaboration with The Breast Health Partnership of the South Sound (BHPSS) is providing screening mammograms for women in need. Patients who are underserved receive priority for these digital mammography screenings. The partnership defines underserved women as being:

• Without Insurance
• Without Doctor/Healthcare Provider
• Meeting the Federal Poverty guidelines
• Insured, but unable to afford the copay for a screening exam

One in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime. Many factors that raise the risk for breast cancer are out of your control, such as age and genetic makeup. But one thing women 40 and older can do to reduce risk is to get your annual screening mammogram.

What is a screening mammogram? What is a diagnostic mammogram?
Digital mammography uses x-rays to make an image of the breast. A screening mammogram takes views of both breasts for the radiologist to review. If the radiologist should see a potential problem, he or she will ask that the patient receive a diagnostic mammogram which requires a special order from the patient’s doctor. This exam is done by the same machine, but in this case, the technologist takes several views of the area(s) in question. In most cases,this closer view shows there are no problems. But in some cases, patients are asked to have other diagnostic exams or to have an area of the breast biopsied.

Diagnostic Imaging Northwest is offering two Screening Mammogram Days for  East Pierce County residents. Your appointment MUST be scheduled and confirmed 48 hours in advance of the appointment day.

To have your request for a free screening authorized and appointment scheduled, contact: Donna Banks, Good Samaritan Breast Health Coordinator, RN at 253-697-4927.  All appointments are BY APPOINTMENT ONLY -- no walk-ins.

Screening mammogram and education events are available in several locations. If you cannot make these days work, and are interested in other screening events or eligibility opportunities for a FREE or reduced fee mammogram in Pierce County contact: The Breast and Cervical Program of Pierce County at 253-798-6410. For other charitable mammography services: contact Donna Banks at 253-697-4927 and ask about Her Peace of Mind program.

If you do not qualify for the underserved qualifications and would like to self-pay for your exam; a 30% cash discount is extended at the time of service; or you may request a payment plan option. If you have insurance and have not had an exam in the last 364 days, you may call and self-request an exam.  Your reports will be sent directly to you.  If there is a finding; your healthcare provider or the breast health navigator will be notified to allow for a follow-up exam.

If you have a referring provider, we recommend you get your annual check up and request a referral from your provider. 

For all referrals, self-pay, or self requesting exams:  call Diagnostic Imaging Northwest at (253-841-4353) to schedule your appointment.