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Since 1986, the Breast Clinic at Maine Coast Memorial Hospital has been offering caring, competent breast care service in a relaxed setting. This leadership has provided the women of Hancock and Washington Counties with a truly special resource. The Breast Clinic is part of Downeast Maine’s largest and most comprehensive healthcare facility, ensuring our patients excellence in care.
The Breast Clinic |
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Maine Coast Memorial Hospital
The Medical Office Building
Suite 3300
Ellsworth, ME 04605
(207) 664-5492
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The Breast Clinic at Maine Coast Memorial Hospital has received National Accreditation from the FDA, American College of Radiology, is certified by the State of Maine and by Medicare.
All clinical Staff at Maine Coast Memorial Breast Clinic have received specialized training in mammography.
The radiologists who interpret the mammograms have had specific training in mammography and the technologist has a special certification in mammography.
Suite 3300 in the Medical Office Building is home to the Breast Clinic. The Clinic was designed to provide privacy, comfort, and the highest quality of professional service.
Our equipment
Our mammograms are performed on two state of the art Digital Mammography Systems.
Special features include:
F. A. Q.
Why a Mammogram?
A mammogram has the capability of finding a tiny tumor years before it can be felt. Since we don’t know what causes breast cancer, we really have no way to prevent it. Our best hope is through early detection and treatment.
Who needs a Mammogram?
The American Cancer Society recommends a first (baseline) mammogram between the ages of 35 and 40. Women who are between 40 and over should have a mammogram every year.
What is a Mammogram?
A mammogram is a special low dose x-ray of breast tissue only. There are at least 4 views taken for a complete study - two views of each breast. The films are then interpreted by a radiologist and the results are sent to your physician. Your physician will then discuss the results with you.
Does a Mammogram hurt?
A mammogram should not hurt! The breasts are compressed during the exam. It feels tight, sometimes a little uncomfortable, but should never be painful. Timing and preparation are important. The exam should not be scheduled before a menstrual period or at the end of an estrogen cycle. Caffeine should be eliminated 7 to 10 days before the exam. These measures help to decrease any discomfort.
 Will my insurance pay for a Mammogram?
There are two categories of mammograms:
- Screening These are done when women have no symptoms.
- Diagnostic This means the woman presents with a problem such as a lump, pain, nipple discharge, nipple retraction or other symptom.
Most insurance companies pay for both types of mammograms, but the only way to know for sure is to contact your insurance company. Medicare will pay for a mammogram every year. Most companies have toll free numbers. If you have no insurance, don't let the cost of a mammogram dissuade you from having one. There are programs available to assist with the cost. No one has ever been denied a mammogram at Maine Coast Memorial Hospital because she could’t afford it.
Where do I get a Mammogram?
You need to get your mammogram at the best qualified facility. The important factors are:
- Dedicated mammography equipment that is at least annually checked by a physicist.
- A qualified technologist who has been specially trained in mammography.
A board certified radiologist who has had specific training in the interpretation of mammograms.
- Accreditation from the FDA. American College of Radiology.
The Breast Clinic at Maine Coast Memorial Hospital fulfills all these requirements.
Staff
The Breast Clinic Team includes:
The Breast Clinic relies on the depth of resources from Maritime Radiology to interpret all mammograms.
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