Mammogram – A Retrospective
A mammogram is a necessary procedure for all women over the age of 40 who have to endure at least once in two years. It is an important screening and diagnostic tool to detect breast cancer. It is like performing the x-ray of the breast from all angles so the image will be clear enough to find traces of cancer cells. There are several options for a mammogram in Chennai but you must choose wisely. Cost is a vital factor which depends on the kind of test and the facilities you get in the diagnostic centre. Before X-rays, breast cancers were tough to detect. By the time you get sick with cancer, the mass will be big enough to feel from outside.
The mammogram we use today was invented in 1949 during which time the X-rays were already in use. To get the imaging more accurate, mammograms have the compression aspect. With an increase in diagnostic capabilities, there is an increased image clarity and accuracy. 3D breast imaging technology is more likely to pick up tumours and less likely to give false-positive results.
Mammogram, An Important Test For Women
A regular mammogram and early detection will reduce the risk of death by 33%. The older a patient is, the more likely is the chance to save the person from breast cancer by regular screening. Despite this, some women are still afraid to take the test. Most of them feel that it can be painful and can be apprehensive about the result. There is a little discomfort felt during the procedure due to the compression of plates on the breast. But this discomfort is only momentary and this should not be a reason to keep women away from regulating mammograms.
A false negative or false positive result can be challenging yet to be on a safer side, women aged over 40 will have to undergo regular screening once in two years. Cost is another factor that keeps women away from regular screening. You need to talk to your medical insurance provider to understand the benefits you can avail for a regular mammogram screening.
Mammogram Cost And Insurance
Only some insurance companies cover mammogram costs. A few companies will have cashless plans that will cover mammogram costs. Patients do not have to pay out of their pockets. Some insurance companies will offer a co-pay. A mammogram copay will be around $10 to $35. For patients without insurance, it will cost around $80 to $212. The average price will be close to $102. For the uninsured, hospitals will have payment plans that will help patients with their finances.
A part of the mammogram cost goes to buying and maintaining the machines and tools used to perform the test. The diagnostic centre will also have to pay for the experienced radiographers who perform the test. Additional cost will be incurred if you are being asked to take further tests for a re-evaluation. Priority should be given to conducting the test and you must not be intimidated by the cost.
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