Making Breast Cancer Screenings Convenient and Accessible to All Houstonians
The American Cancer Society estimates that more than 316,000 new cases of breast cancer will be diagnosed this year in women. And while rare, roughly 2,800 men will develop the disease too.
One of the most important things you can do to protect yourself is to get screened regularly. For women ages 40–54 at average risk, the general recommendation is to get a mammogram (breast imaging) every 1–2 years until age 74. If you are at higher risk, your health care provider can lay out a screening plan and frequency based on your unique risk factors.
At Innovista Medical Center, we understand the importance of breast cancer screening. Our goal is to make getting mammograms as easy and convenient as possible. We are proud to partner with The Rose, a Houston-based breast health organization that offers a full range of breast cancer screening and diagnostic services.
The Rose and Innovista share the mutual goals of improving access to health care and helping all women get the care they need and deserve.
The Rose’s mission is to save lives by ensuring anyone who needs a mammogram can get one. The organization offers a sponsorship program to qualified uninsured patients to access screening mammograms and diagnostic services, and has a team of experts who can help navigate patients into treatment. Plus, for every three insured women who visit The Rose for screening mammograms, it covers the cost of an uninsured woman to get hers.
In addition to two standalone locations, The Rose has a robust mobile mammography program that serves 45 counties in southeast Texas. All six Houston-area Innovista Medical Centers host The Rose’s mobile mammogram coaches throughout the year, allowing patients to conveniently get this important screening at a location familiar and comfortable to them.
Scheduling a screening at one of The Rose’s mobile mammography coaches is easy. Call 866-325-0301 or simply register online.
Preparing for Your Mobile Mammogram
Many women fear that a mammogram can be stressful or painful, but it shouldn’t be. By preparing correctly and knowing what to expect, you can feel more confident and at ease.
How do I best prepare?
Before your screening, do not wear lotion, powder, or deodorant. Also wear two-piece clothing rather than a dress.
What should I bring to my appointment?
If you have images and reports from past screenings, bring them. Or, you can provide the address and phone number of the facility where they can be obtained. This allows the radiologist to compare your new images with your older ones.
What can I expect when I step into the mobile mammography coach?
You will be greeted by an intake specialist who will confirm your personal information, and you will be shown to the changing room on the coach. Afterwards, a mammogram technician will lead you to a private exam room with the mammogram machine, explain the procedure, and assist you into the correct position to have the images taken. Your mammogram will take less than 20 minutes.
Will it hurt?
This is a common concern. A mammogram should not hurt. It can feel slightly uncomfortable, though, because the breast tissue needs to be compressed. The compression only lasts for about 20–30 seconds while the image is captured.
Can I get a mammogram at a mobile event without signing up?
No, you must register first. You can sign up here.
Do I need an order or a referral from an Innovista provider?
No, you do not need an order or a referral. You can get a mammogram at one of our mobile events as long as:
- You registered properly
- You are 40 or older
- You are a patient of Innovista Medical Center
- You have a Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas insurance plan
- It has been a year or more since your last screening
I am due for a mammogram but am not yet an established patient. Can I still register?
If you have not established care with an Innovista provider but are due for a mammogram, you first need to see a provider.
How long until I get my results?
You will receive your results in 5–7 business days unless your images are held for comparison with prior imaging. If your results are held for comparison, results may take up to two weeks.
How do I get my results?
Results come to Innovista Medical Center directly. You can view your results in your MyChart portal. If there is an abnormal finding that requires follow-up, you may get a call from The Rose in addition to your primary care provider for next steps.
