With a dedication to fighting breast cancer through early detection and timely treatments, the Sheila R. Veloz Breast Imaging Center is offering a special price for digital screening mammograms in June and July. Patients who are uninsured, have high deductibles, or whose insurance plans are not contracted by Henry Mayo Newhall Memorial Hospital can receive a routine screening mammogram for the special cash price of $180.

The best available tool for breast cancer detection continues to be the mammogram. Taken over time, mammograms provide a way to identify changes  in breast tissue, such as the appearance of a tumor. The Sheila R. Veloz Breast Imaging Center, designated as a Breast Imaging Center of Excellence by the American College of Radiology (ACR), uses digital mammography rather than traditional analog mammography.

"Digital mammography is faster and significantly increases the ability to see very small abnormalities," said Terry Bucknall, BA, RT (R) (M), CDT, director of the Sheila R. Veloz Breast Imaging Center, a service of Henry Mayo Newhall Memorial Hospital. "It makes it easier to detect breast cancers in the early stage, and an earlier diagnosis increases the patient's options for treatment."

With its own entrance, home-like atmosphere, and friendly staff, the Breast Imaging Center also has the latest ultrasound technology, which complements mammography in cancer detection and facilitates minimally invasive, image-guided biopsies. Located on Henry Mayo Newhall Memorial Hospital's campus, the Breast Imaging Center has performed more than 73,000 procedures and detected 545 breast cancers.

The American Cancer Society recommends that women with no history of breast cancer in the family should schedule an annual mammogram at age 40. Beginning at the age of 20, women are recommended to have a clinical breast exam by their medical provider, and discuss options for screenings if they have a history of breast cancer in their family.

The Sheila R. Veloz Breast Imaging Center does not require a physician's referral or prescription for routine screening mammograms. Appointments can be scheduled Monday through Friday, including lunchtimes and into the evening, as well as some weekends, by calling 661-253-8822. The Breast Imaging Center is located at 23929 McBean Parkway, Suite 101, Valencia.

After undergoing a rigorous accreditation process by the American College of Radiology Committee on Mammography Accreditation, the Sheila R. Veloz Breast Imaging Center once again received a 3-year accreditation as a Breast Imaging Center of Excellence. The designation validates that the Breast Imaging Center meets quality criteria for breast cancer diagnosis, including clinical image quality and processor quality control. The mammography team pictured includes (left to right) Terry Bucknall, director; Lisa Derham, RT; Sandy Cunan, RT; Daniel Kirsch, MD; Holly Ware, RT; and Cheryl Townsend, RT.