Huntsville VA Clinic introduces new and advanced mammography service
The Huntsville VA Clinic introduced its new mammography service on March 29, 2023, for women Veterans in northern Alabama.
The new mammography service features the advanced Hologic Genius 3D mammography technology that exhibits higher quality imaging and the ability to adapt and better position each unique individual for more comfort and precision.
“The advantages are many,” said Dr. Carol Dell, Lead Interpreting Mammographer at the Birmingham VA Health Care System. “They include better access to VA health care, convenient mammographic screening closer to home, and importantly continuity of care - meaning that all imaging can be performed and reviewed in the same institution, which facilitates better care and more rapid diagnosis and treatment if breast cancer is detected.”
In 2017, the Birmingham VA’s mammography program started at the Birmingham VA Clinic. Now, the program has expanded screening services to the Huntsville VA Clinic for better access to care for women Veterans in Huntsville, Guntersville, Shoals, and surrounding areas.
“Many of our Veterans find it difficult to travel to Birmingham and choose to have their mammogram screenings done locally through Community Care,” said Dr. Dell. “By opening our mammography screening program at our Huntsville VA Clinic, we will now be able to serve those Veterans.”
Over the last several years, the Huntsville VA Clinic has grown rapidly, serving over 3,000 women Veterans in the area today.
“My experience with the new mammography service was wonderful,” said Ruth Keith, the first Veteran patient to experience the new mammography service at the Huntsville VA Clinic. “The staff was very professional, and I felt comfortable throughout the procedure. I think this new service is great for women Veterans in the Huntsville area.”
Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in the United States, accounting for 1 in 8 diagnoses per year. Women aged 40-50 and above are recommended to receive annual mammograms as breast cancer risk increases with age.
Talk to your VA provider today about your risk of developing breast cancer and when you should begin mammogram screenings.