Digital Breast Tomosynthesis (DBT), commonly called 3D mammography, is an advanced option for breast cancer screening. Patients often seek this technology because it offers improved tissue visualization compared to traditional methods. Understanding where to access this service requires navigating facility location and scheduling. While this advanced imaging is becoming more widely available, finding a nearby center requires a focused search.
Understanding 3D Mammography
Digital Breast Tomosynthesis (DBT) operates by taking multiple low-dose X-ray images of the breast from various angles during a single compression. These images are then reconstructed by a computer into a series of thin, high-resolution “slices” of breast tissue. This differs significantly from standard 2D mammography, which produces only one flat image of the entire breast.
This layered approach helps radiologists examine the tissue one section at a time, reducing the issue of overlapping tissue that can obscure cancers or mimic tumors on a 2D image. By separating the tissue structures, DBT often leads to increased cancer detection rates and a reduction in patient callbacks for additional imaging. The radiation exposure for a DBT exam is comparable to that of a standard 2D exam and remains within safety guidelines set by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Locating Facilities Offering Digital Breast Tomosynthesis
The most efficient method for locating a facility is often through the member portal of your health insurance provider. These online tools allow users to search for in-network providers and filter results by specific services, such as Digital Breast Tomosynthesis. Verifying that a center is in-network and offers DBT before scheduling can save time and prevent unexpected costs.
Another dependable resource is your Primary Care Provider (PCP) or OB/GYN office, as these physicians typically maintain a current list of local, high-quality imaging centers. Their staff frequently coordinate referrals and often know which centers have recently upgraded to 3D technology. Contacting their office directly can provide a quick and reliable recommendation for a facility.
Patients can also perform direct searches of major local hospital systems and dedicated women’s health centers. Large medical networks usually list the specific technology available at each of their imaging locations on their websites. Searching for facility pages often confirms whether they utilize DBT equipment from major manufacturers like Hologic, GE Healthcare, or Siemens Healthineers.
Some manufacturers of DBT equipment maintain public-facing locators on their websites to find facilities that have purchased and installed their 3D systems. While this method may not verify insurance network status, it provides a comprehensive list of centers using the technology. Combining this information with a subsequent insurance check ensures both technological access and cost coverage.
Logistical Steps Before Scheduling
Once a facility is identified, the first administrative step is determining whether a physician’s referral is required for a screening exam. While some states allow self-referral for annual screening mammograms, many facilities still require a formal order from a physician, particularly for diagnostic exams. It is always best practice to confirm this requirement with the imaging center’s scheduling department.
Contacting the facility’s billing department is essential to verify insurance coverage for the specific procedure. The Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) code for screening DBT is often 77063; providing this code ensures the representative checks the correct coverage details. This conversation should confirm that the service is covered and clarify any potential out-of-pocket expenses, such as co-pays or deductibles.
Scheduling Timing
When scheduling the appointment, pre-menopausal women may find it beneficial to schedule the exam during the week following the end of their menstrual cycle. At this time, hormonal changes result in the breasts being less tender, which can improve comfort during the necessary compression.
Day-of Preparation
Day-of preparation requires avoiding all deodorants, antiperspirants, powders, or lotions in the chest and underarm area. These products can contain particles that appear as artifacts on the X-ray images, potentially interfering with the results.