Breast Care Services
Services
St. Luke's Magic Valley Medical Center offers the following services to help meet the unique health care needs of women in our community:
- Diagnostic & Screening Mammography – all screening mammograms are processed through a state-of-the-art computer aided detection system (CAD) that provides a technological “second look” to assist radiologists in identifying areas on the mammogram that warrant another review.
- Clinical Breast Exams
- Self Breast Exam Education
- Breast Care Coordination Services
Mammography and Breast Self-Examination
Every woman has a 1 in 8 lifetime risk of developing breast cancer. Treatments for this often deadly disease are becoming more effective and the survival rate is increasing--but prevention is still the best defense. St.Luke's is dedicated to stopping breast cancer, and our expanded breast cancer screening services and dedicated personnel provide mammograms in three convenient, comfortable locations in Boise and Meridian. And to provide even easier access to this important screening technology, our mobile mammography coach travels to cities throughout our region.
All mammography films performed at BCDC are automatically processed by a computer-aided detection system that assists radiologists by digitizing and analyzing mammograms for suspicious areas that may indicate cancer. Studies have shown that this system may help detect up to 20 percent more breast cancers in their earliest, most treatable stage. The first of its kind in Idaho, this computer-aided imaging technology is just one more example of St. Luke's MSTI's dedication to winning the battle against breast cancer.
Regular mammograms are one of the most important things a woman can do to protect her health. If you are over the age of 40, call BCDC today to schedule a mammogram and clinical breast exam.
What is a mammogram?
A mammogram is a breast x-ray that can detect a tumor as small as the head of pin. Our mammograms are done by a certified mammography technologist and state-of-the-art equipment, which assures you the highest quality with the lowest dose radiation.
What is a clinical breast exam?
A clinical breast exam includes visual and palpable (touch) examination of your breasts and surrounding tissues. At BCDC, these exams are conducted by nurses specially trained in this area.
What is breast self-examination?
Performed on a monthly basis, breast self-examination is a system that allows a woman to thoroughly check her breasts for signs of cancer, both visually and palpably (by touch).
Do I Need a Mammogram?
The American Cancer Society recommends that every woman should have a mammogram by the age of 40, and annually thereafter. If you are female and over 40, don't delay--a mammogram could save your life.
