Designated by the American College of Radiology (ACR) as a Breast Imaging Center of Excellence, Long Island Community Hospital provides the latest technology combined with expert interpretation to offer patients the most-up-to-date protocols for detecting breast cancer and osteoporosis. Our onsite board-certified radiologists are dedicated to breast imaging and bone density testing and are supported by a team of experienced technologists, who are all certified in breast mammography and breast ultrasound.
At Long Island Community’s Women’s Imaging Services, testing includes:
- digital mammography (uses a low-dose radiation to produce high quality images of the breast)
- 3D breast tomosynthesis (3D mammography)
- breast ultrasound
- breast MRI
- fine needle aspiration
- ultrasound guided biopsy, stereotactic biopsy and MRI-guided biopsy—a procedure not yet offered at all centers
- bone densitometry exams (DEXA)
The Women’s Imaging Center offers a warm, calming environment that simply doesn’t feel institutional. In a modern facility, appointed with earth tones and natural-like woods, we provide outpatient care that is convenient, easy to access, and has ample parking. Our streamlined process means that registration and testing all take place in one comfortable location by a dedicated staff who care about your needs.
At the center, you’ll be treated as an individual. Our staff strive to communicate clearly and to create a genuine connection with you our patient. Most often, your mammogram will be read the same day or next day and results are quickly shared with your physician and with you. If something suspicious is found, our team will guide you through the process working efficiently to achieve a diagnosis and next steps without delay.
Our goal is to provide the best customer service around. You’ll find our team to be compassionate, empathetic and accommodating. Some of our staff are former or current breast cancer patients themselves and because of their personal experiences, these women are especially understanding of what our patients are going through. We’re a small hospital with big heart treating patients the way we ourselves would want to be treated.
Committed to doing all we can to help keep women healthy.
For more information on our services or to schedule an appointment, call 631.654.7448.
Long Island Community Hospital Women’s Imaging is located at: 100 Hospital Road, suite 100, Patchogue, NY 11772
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 Long Island Community Hospital 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 GROUPS
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
- Watch this video demonstration of a breast self-exam.
- Read these instructions for a breast self-exam.