Mammogram FAQs

1. What is a mammogram?

A mammogram is a breast health screening, and it is the best tool for early detection of cancer. During a mammogram, an x-ray scans your breast tissue. Then, a radiologist evaluates that scan to determine if there are any abnormalities.

2. Who should get a 3D mammogram?

3D mammograms are recommended for all women over the age of 40. Many insurances cover 3D mammograms. Talk to our Pricing Support Center (844-786-9503) if you have questions about insurance coverage.

Talk to your primary care provider about your family history and risk factors for breast cancer. Sometimes, if you have a family history of breast cancer, your primary care doctor may recommend getting a mammogram before the age of 40. He or she will give you an order for this screening.

Do you need a primary care provider? Find one here.

3. Why do I need a mammogram?

Early detection of breast cancer saves lives. By getting your annual mammogram, you’re being proactive and opening up the most treatment options if cancer is ever detected.

4. At what age should I get a mammogram?

For most women, mammography screening should begin at age 40 and be repeated yearly. If you have a family history of breast cancer, talk to your primary care doctor about the potential need for mammograms before the age of 40.

5. Will Medicare pay for screening mammograms?

Effective January 1, 1998, Medicare will pay 80 percent of the allowed amount and waive the deductible amount for screening mammograms every year for patients over age 40.

6. Will my insurance cover a 3D mammogram?

Most insurance companies cover 3D mammograms for women over age 40. If you have questions about coverage and cost, please call our Pricing Support Center (844-786-9503). They can help you navigate your insurance.

7. How can I schedule a mammogram?

We make scheduling easy. Log into MyChart or call 317-355-4680 or use the interactive map on this page to find convenient locations. Many locations offer weekend and evening hours. Try to schedule your mammogram when your breasts will be the least tender.

8. Do I need an order from my doctor to get a mammogram?

If you’re a woman over 40, you do not need an order from your doctor to get a mammogram. Your doctor my give you printed instructions as a reminder to get your screening.

If you’re a woman under the age of 40, your health insurance may not cover a mammogram screening without an order from your doctor. Please check with your health insurance provider about coverage or call our Pricing Support Center at 844-786-9503.

9. What can I expect when I have a mammogram?

A mammogram may not be at the top of your favorite things to do list, but we make the experience as comforting as possible. You will meet one of our specially-trained technologists who will walk you through the process.

After you enter a private room, you will prepare for the mammogram by undressing from the waist up and removing any deodorant or powders from the breast area. We ask that you wear two-piece clothing to make undressing more convenient.

You will stand next to the 3D x-ray machine and the technologist will position you. Two flat surfaces will briefly compress each breast. Though compression may be slightly uncomfortable, it is necessary for capturing the best image with the lowest amount of radiation.

10. What does “early detection” mean?

Many women with breast cancer have no symptoms in the early stages. But, when breast cancer is found early, it is easier to treat. Put simply, early detection is your best chance for beating breast cancer, and mammograms are the best tool for early detection.

11. Is a mammogram the only way to detect breast cancer?

Mammography is the most effective method to detect breast cancer. In fact, 3D mammograms are 40% more effective than traditional mammograms. It is still important to do your monthly breast self-exams. If you feel any changes in how your breasts feel or if you find lumps, talk to your primary care doctor.