Progress West Adds Diagnostic Mammography and Breast Ultrasound Services

Progress West HealthCare Center now offers diagnostic mammography and breast ultrasound capabilities. Diagnostic mammograms and ultrasound -- and other types of imaging services -- can be scheduled by calling 636.344.1702. Patients leave the exam with a diagnosis from the breast mammographer.

"We are happy to offer diagnostic mammograms and ultrasound and further extend our capabilities to cover women's health at Progress West," says Scott Austermann, manager, Imaging Services. "There is a definite need for this type of service, and I believe we have filled this need with great physicians, technologists and a wonderful atmosphere."

Progress West teams with Midwest Radiological Associates to ensure a radiologist specializing in mammography will be on-site for this new service. A benefit of the diagnostic mammography and ultrasound program to patients is the reassurance of an immediate diagnosis.

With the launch of this program, Imaging Services at Progress West is now able to provide the two main types of mammography services to patients; screening and diagnostic. Screening mammograms are annual to bi-annual overall breast health exams. Your physician does not need to write an order for this type of mammogram. It is recommended to check your health insurance plan's guidelines before scheduling. A radiologist need not be on-site to receive a routine screening exam. 

Diagnostic mammography is more complex. The exam takes a closer look at a particular area(s) of the breast after a concern is identified by a screening mammogram. An ultrasound is often performed after the diagnostic mammogram to clearly identify the area. A specialized radiologist must perform this type of exam, and you must have a written order from your physician for both the diagnostic exam and the ultrasound exam.