Comprehensive Breast Center - Mammography at Hallmark Health System
We are dedicated to providing state-of-the-art technology and quality screening and diagnostic mammography services. As with all Hallmark Health services, we also recognize the importance of providing you convenient, accessible care with compassion and respect.
Hallmark Health System offers a comprehensive Breast Health program, including 5 locations for screening mammography (see below for addresses) and a Comprehensive Breast Center for those women who require additional diagnostics and/or treatment services. In addition, a Breast Care Nurse Navigator is available to assist you.
Hallmark Health System is proud to offer women the latest in digital mammography technology in a personal, compassionate environment. We offer state-of-the-art GE technology for the clearest, most detailed digital images available today.
The Massachusetts Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure is one of over 120 Affiliates across the U.S. and Europe. The mission of the organization is to eradicate breast cancer by advancing research, screening, care, and education. The Massachusetts Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure® is dedicated to protecting the most vulnerable residents in Massachusetts, particularly those who face barriers to care. For the third year, the MA Affiliate is generously funding Hallmark Health System’s program “For the Best Health, Remember Breast Health”. This program provides screening, navigation services, and education to local residents.
Our program, “For the Best Health, Remember Breast Health,” funded by the Massachusetts Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure, is a three-part educational and support program designed to serve the women in our communities. The program will allow the staff of Hallmark Health System to educate young women about the importance of breast health and breast cancer prevention strategies, provide leading edge training to healthcare staff at Hallmark Health’s six local mammography sites and offer navigation services to women in the community needing support in scheduling their annual mammogram.
This program will address and advance the mission of the Susan G. Komen for the Cure group to eradicate breast cancer as a life-threatening disease by advancing education and screening in 12 of the communities served by Hallmark Health. We are honored to have this opportunity to promote optimal breast health and to serve the residents in our communities.
- Improved outcomes as a result of reduced radiation doses, better visualization of breast tissue and integration with our computer aided technology software that improves early detection by 20%
- State-of-the-art digital mammography machines
- Shorter examination times – often 15 minutes or less
- Convenient locations throughout our local communities
- Newly renovated, private waiting rooms
- Easy scheduling with appointments for screenings made within 2-3 days along with early morning, evening and weekend appointments at most locations
- Caring, compassionate and highly experienced technicians
We offer the most advanced technology available today for breast care and screening. The latest technology coupled with experience and compassion leaves you with peace of mind.
Hallmark Health System mammography facilities possess a valid license and certificate of inspection issued by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health.
Screening Mammogram Locations:
• Melrose-Wakefield Hospital – 585 Lebanon St., Melrose
• Lawrence Memorial Hospital – 170 Governors Ave., Medford
• Health Image – 830 Main St. , Melrose
• Hallmark Health Medical Center – Reading
• 101 Main St., Suite 116 – Medford
Screening Mammograms are now available on Saturdays at our Comprehensive Breast Center location.
Diagnostic Mammogram Location:
• Comprehensive Breast Center – 41 Montvale Ave., Stoneham
All Hallmark Health Mammography Centers are licensed by the Department of Public Health and accredited by the American College of Radiology
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a mammogram?
A mammogram is an x-ray of your breast. It can detect breast tumors before they can be felt, if found early, over 95% of breast cancers can be treated successfully.
When should I begin having a mammogram?
The American Cancer Society recommends that you have a mammogram every year beginning at age 40 or In some cases earlier if you have symptoms or a family history of breast cancer.
What is the difference between a “screening” and a “diagnostic” mammogram?
A “screening” mammogram typically refers to the routine mammogram for women to have every year beginning at age 40 (in some cases earlier, if a patient has symptoms or a family history of breast cancer).
A “diagnostic” mammogram refers to the follow-up tests a woman will have if the radiologist sees any questionable issues on the screening mammogram or for women who have a history of breast cancer, palpable lumps, or a suspicious mammograms.
What should I wear?
If possible, please wear a two piece outfit. If not, you will be asked to change into a hospital gown for the exam.
Why can’t I use deodorant the morning of my mammogram?
Deodorant can mimic breast calcifications on the mammogram image, resulting in some women being unnecessarily called back for additional exams.
Does a mammogram hurt?
Most women say that mammograms are not painful but many find them uncomfortable, especially due to the need for breast compression.
Why do we compress your breast during a mammogram?
Breast compression allows us to obtain a clearer image.
How long does the exam take?
The exam usually takes 15 minutes.
How long does it take to receive the results?
For screening mammograms, your primary care and/or gynecologist will receive the report within a week. For most diagnostic mammograms, you will receive the results directly from a radiologist following your exam, typically within 1 hour.
If I am called back for additional views, what does this mean?
A routine screening mammogram consists of several images of each breast. These images are read by a radiologist who may determine he/she needs additional views for a complete interpretation. Sometimes normal breast tissue may image in such a way as to create a questionable shadow. Additional views with a slightly different angle or position can clear up any question the radiologist may have. If it is determined you need to have additional views, we will contact you directly to set up an appointment for you. Please understand that many women are called back and then confirmed to have no need for additional testing until their next regular screening mammogram.
Advantages of Digital Mammography (vs. traditional film mammography)
• Better image quality and detail.
• Better able to detect breast cancer, particularly for women with dense breast tissue.
• Uses less radiation
• Faster
• Allows images to be stored and sent electronically.
If you are unable to keep your appointment please call (781) 338-7111 to reschedule.
