SPRINGFIELD, Minn. (Jan. 25, 2023) — Allina Health Springfield Clinic is now offering 3D mammograms thanks to the support of Allina Health and the Allina Health Foundation (formerly the New Ulm Medical Center Foundation).
A mammogram is the best way to screen for breast cancer. A 3D mammogram – also called tomosynthesis – provides the most detailed picture of breast tissue because it takes several images from several angles, which are combined by a computer to produce a three-dimensional image of the breast. 3D mammograms are especially beneficial for women who have a high risk of developing breast cancer or have dense breast tissue.
“We’ve been planning for over a year and a half to upgrade our mammography equipment and system in Springfield, so it’s exciting to see this 3D option now available to the Springfield community and region,” said Jackie Schueler, manager, Radiology, at Allina Health New Ulm Medical Center and Springfield Clinic.
Springfield Clinic will offer its first 3D mammogram on January 25, 2023.
“There are a number of benefits with 3D mammography,” said Corinne Jordan, MD, general surgery at New Ulm Medical Center. “3D is more sensitive, more specific and issues are more likely to be found.”
3D mammography has a higher rate of finding cancer early, detecting invasive cancer and decreasing the need for additional imaging and testing.
A 3D mammogram appointment takes the same length of time and uses the same amount of compression as a traditional 2D mammography.
Allina Health New Ulm Medical Center also upgraded its 3D mammography equipment in early January 2023. The mammography upgrades at both New Ulm Medical Center and Springfield Clinic were made possible due to financial support from Allina Health and the Allina Health Foundation (formerly the New Ulm Medical Center Foundation).
Most health insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, cover annual preventative mammograms with no out-of-pocket costs for women starting at age 40. However, check with your insurance provider before your appointment to find out what is covered under your plan.
To schedule a mammogram or to discuss your breast health needs with your primary care provider, call Springfield Clinic at 507-723-6201 or New Ulm Medical Center at 507-217-5011.