Mammography

Early Detection Saves Lives

To schedule your mammogram call 307-885-5940.

One in every eight women will develop breast cancer within their lifetime. However, if caught early, the five-year survival rate is nearly 100%.

Preventive screenings are critically important in the fight against breast cancer. And while breast self-exams are helpful, many women who are diagnosed with breast cancer do not initially show any symptoms or signs, such as lumps. This makes mammograms all the more essential.

Breast cancer survivor Staci Horsley shares her experience at Star Valley Health. She also gives advice about the importance of early detection and preventive screenings.

Some key insights on breast cancer:

• About one in eight US women will develop invasive breast cancer.
• Breast cancer is the most common cancer diagnosis for women in Wyoming.
• Though breast cancer is most diagnosed in women, men can experience breast cancer, too.
• Annual mammograms are recommended for women ages 40 and up, and younger for those considered high-risk for developing breast cancer.

Our mammography services include:

• 2D/3D screening and diagnostic mammograms
• Breast US
• Breast BIopsy
• Breast MRI

Read on to learn more about our mammography services, plus helpful information if you need financial support.

Mammograms: What to Expect

A mammogram is a low-dose X-ray that’s used to examine your breast tissue. During the procedure, you’ll be provided a gown and asked to remove jewelry and clothing from the waist up, along with any deodorant.

Everything we do is designed for your utmost comfort and safety. That is why we use the least radiation possible to obtain the necessary images.

Your female mammographer will place your breast on a platform on the mammography machine, which will be compressed by a second plate. This is to help ensure that the X-ray captures a comprehensive and clear image. While the full mammogram procedure lasts about half an hour, your breasts will be compressed for less than 30 seconds for each image.

Though the pressure of a mammogram may feel uncomfortable, it’s not harmful. If discomfort is a concern, you may want to schedule your mammogram outside of the week leading up to your menstrual cycle, as breasts are often more tender during this time. Feel free to contact our mammography team with any questions. We work to create an imaging environment that’s supportive and secure.

We’re also proud to offer imaging services that meet the American College of Radiology (ACR) Gold Seal of accreditation. From our state-of-the-art equipment to our skilled radiology technologist, you can be confident in our commitment to excellence and adhering to industry best practices.

Please note that imaging diagnostic readings are provided by Medical Imaging Associates of Idaho and billed separately.

Financial Assistance

We want to help ensure that our community has access to preventive screenings. Here are several options for financial assistance:

The Star Valley Breast Care Fund is available to women and men in Star Valley who are uninsured. In partnership with Star Valley Rotary, we provide financial assistance for an initial mammogram screening and the radiology report of the screening. To apply for a grant, simply fill out this online application. The grant application is also available in Spanish.

The Wyoming Cancer Program partners with healthcare providers to reimburse the costs of screening services like mammograms, colonoscopies, and Pap tests. The Wyoming Cancer Program applications are available online in both English and Spanish.

For further information on these initiatives, contact Crystal at 307-885-5940.

Breast Cancer Support

We know how overwhelming a cancer diagnosis can be. We offer extensive cancer treatments, from our surgical services to our Oncology and Infusion Center. We also understand the emotional challenges that come with a cancer journey, and our staff provides a support group specifically for patients with breast cancer.

Don’t delay in scheduling a potentially lifesaving screening. Connect with our team to book your mammogram appointment today.