“It was terrifying, but Oklahoma City VA staff completely changed my perspective about VA”
U.S. Marine Corps Veteran Delia Dee Balliet initially had reservations about choosing VA. When she needed help, Balliet turned to Oklahoma City VA Health Care System and had a life-changing experience.
A critical discovery
After losing her private health insurance, Balliet found herself at a crossroads.
"I needed to see a doctor but was skeptical about using VA because of the horror stories I’d heard," said Balliet.
Despite her hesitation, Balliet enrolled in VA health care.
“The doctor referred me to the mammography clinic for a routine scan, said Balliet. “That’s when they found a lump.”
Balliet’s initial 2D mammogram revealed a growth in her breast, leaving her feeling anxious and uncertain about her future.
“Everything stopped,” said Balliet. “The words echoed in my ears.”
State-of-the-art technology
In 2023, Oklahoma City VA Medical Center became one of five VA hospitals nationwide to offer 3D mammography screenings.
A 3D mammogram is a type of medical imaging that uses multiple X-rays to create a three-dimensional image of the breast.
3D mammograms are usually done as a follow-up if your radiologist or doctor identifies any areas of concern in a standard 2D scan.
During her follow-up, Balliet was able to take advantage of this new technology.
“Even with my dense breast tissue, it took just a few minutes and was painless,” said Balliet.
Thirty minutes later, her doctor informed her the growth was benign.
“Betwenn the appointments, I turned to my faith and the Marine in me for strength, said Balliet. “When my doctor told me everything would be okay, I experienced immense relief. I realized just how much weight I'd been carrying.”
Expertise and empathy
Referring to the lump found in her breast, Balliet said, "It was terrifying, but Oklahoma City VA staff completely changed my perspective about VA."
According to Balliet, her care was unmatched, and she’s grateful for the all-female staff's expertise and empathy.
"The doctors and nurses took the time to explain my next steps and answered all my questions,” said Balliet. "I felt safe and well-cared for. I had been to several clinics in the community before, but I hadn't experienced such kind and professional care as I got at VA."
Encouraging early detection and prevention
With more than 2 million female Veterans nationwide, women are the fastest-growing group in VA.
The addition of 3D mammography helps Oklahoma City VA ensure access to specialized women's health services for the growing female Veteran population in Oklahoma.
VA recommends women start mammograms at age 45 and every other year after age 55.
If a woman has additional risk factors, such as a family history of breast cancer or specific genetic mutations, in that case, she may want to start getting mammograms earlier.
Balliet has this message to share with fellow Veterans who may need a mammogram: “Don’t wait. Get your scans done. VA will surprise you.”
Veterans who served in specific locations covered by the Dr. Kate Hendricks Thomas Supporting Expanded Review for Veterans In Combat Environments Act (SERVICE Act) may be eligible for a breast cancer risk assessment and mammography screening.
While there is no direct link between toxic exposure and breast cancer at this time, VA is continuing studies to determine if toxic exposure may be a cause of breast cancer. Learn more about the SERVICE Act and accessing breast health.
Accessibility and your health
“We've done more than 180 mammography exams since our grand opening October 25, 2023," said Oklahoma City VA’s Mammography Supervisor, Virginia Minick. "Feedback from Veterans has been overwhelmingly positive. They really love our friendly, all-female staff.”
Call 405-456-4026 from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, for appointments and telehealth options.
Oklahoma City VA's Women Veteran Program offers female Veterans gynecology, mental health care, maternity care, and lifestyle wellness services and much more.
If you have any questions, please contact Women Veteran Program Manager Stephanie Geatches at 405-456-5729 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.
Jesus Flores is a writer and editor on the VISN 19 Creative Task Force and a Marine Corps Veteran.