Women’s Health

Cancer. It’s a word that we’re never prepared to hear. It’s a diagnosis that instantly paralyzes our thoughts with uncertainty and fear. In that moment, we don’t know what to ask or where to turn.

Cancer can be a difficult diagnosis to navigate, but at Long Island Community Hospital Breast Care affiliated NAPBC Breast Cancer Center of Excellence, we are here to help you through your diagnosis and treatment with the compassionate support of a dedicated team of highly motivated, educated and trained physicians, technicians and patient navigators. We will answer your questions and concerns with straight open talk. We will educate and support you. We are now your ‘team’ and we will be on your journey with you.

The Long Island Community Hospital Breast Cancer Survivorship Coalition is also part of your new team. Our mission statement supports your whole health: Best Care, Best Life… body, mind, and spirit. We are available to assist you with emergent needs through patient support services and educational programs. Stay in touch with your Patient Navigator to be notified of workshops and programs that might be beneficial to you and your diagnosis. The Coalition is supported by Pink Aid and community donations.  The Coalition and its amenities are available to anyone in our community, not just patients of Long Island Community Breast Care  area.

According to the American Cancer Society, ‘surviving cancer’ or ‘survivorship’ is now defined as, ‘The process of living with/through, and beyond cancer’. By this definition, cancer survivorship begins at the time of diagnosis.

The Coalition participates in the ‘Lend a Helping Hand’ program, created to provide customized services relieving some of the stress and worry a cancer diagnosis and ensuing treatment creates. We offer: Transportation to and from breast cancer-related medical appointments, massage therapy, salon services and financial assistance.

Please don’t hesitate to discuss your particular needs with your Patient Navigator. She will connect you to the Breast Cancer Survivorship Coalition. Eligibility requirements and an application for the ‘Lend a Helping Hand’ Program can be accessed, here

FAQs

What is mammography?

A mammogram is a very safe low-dose X-ray examination of the breasts that is used to to detect and diagnose breast diseases. A screening mammography is used for women with no symptoms and is a tool in the prevention of breast disease. A diagnostic mammography is for women with symptoms, i.e., breast mass, nipple discharge and breast pain or skin irritation.

Do you accept all insurance plans?

Most health insurance plans that participate with Brookhaven Memorial Hospital Medical Center are accepted. To ensure your insurance is accepted, it is advisable you contact your insurance company’s telephone number on the back of your card.

Why do I need a doctor's prescription to have my exam?

It is a requirement that a doctor prescribes the test. We want to ensure you are getting the proper care as requested by your doctor.

When should I schedule my mammogram?

Schedule your mammogram after you obtain a prescription from your doctor. Your doctor should perform a clinical breast examination, and you should discuss any problems you may have with your breasts. Usually the best time for your mammogram is one week after your menstrual cycle when your breasts are less tender.

Why do I need to arrive 15 minutes before my actual appointment time?

We want to ensure you have enough time to be registered and to complete the required forms.

Why do I need to bring my prior films?

If you have had prior studies, it is in your best interest to bring any films as well as any reports with you. In some cases, it may prevent the need for you to return for additional imaging if the radiologist has prior studies to compare your scans to.

What do I need to do to prepare for my mammography?

On the day of your examination:

  • Remember to bring your prescription, health insurance card and photo ID with you.
  • Do not wear any deodorant, creams, lotions or powders.
  • Inform the technologist if there may be a chance you could be pregnant.

Who will perform my exam?

All exams are performed by highly trained certified technologists. Some procedures are performed by a board-certified radiologist.

What should I expect during my mammography?

The technologist will ask you to remove any jewelry and clothing from the waist up and will give you a gown with the opening to the front. The technologist will help guide and position your breasts on the platform of the machine. A compression paddle will compress your breasts to evenly spread out breast thickness so that small abnormalities will not be obscured.  You will be asked to change positions in between images. This is repeated for each breast.

What will I experience during the examination?

The examination takes approximately a half an hour. Some women with sensitive breasts may feel minor discomfort. During the examination, you will feel pressure on the breasts as they are compressed. The technologist should be informed if any pain is significant, as compression is increased during the examination. The technologist will adjust the compression as necessary.

Will I need to return for additional images?

It is not uncommon for the radiologist to request additional imaging to obtain more detailed information of a specific area.

How will I receive the results of my exam?

Our radiologists are board certified by the American College of Radiology (ACR) and will interpret your study. You will receive the results of your exam by mail within a few days. Your referring physician will receive the actual report. Any suspicious findings are faxed to your referring physician immediately, and you will be notified by mail.

SUPPORT GROUP

Breast Cancer and the New Normal
Discuss issues relevant to your Diagnosis, Treatment and Survivorship.
A free service for breast cancer patients. Call 631-654-7577 or
email MKonnerth@LICommunityHospital.org for details.

HEALTHY FOCUS