Picture of two females who work in the Mammography Department. One of them is taking a selfie and the other one is in her scrubs standing in front of 3-D Mammography Equipment at Russell County Hospital Women's Health Center

Mammography

Mammography Services

3-D Mammography
Russell County Hospital now offers 3-D Mammography at the RCH Women's Health Center to improve breast cancer detection. Women 40+ should begin annual mammograms for early detection.

3-D vs. 2-D Mammography
3-D Mammography(breast tomosynthesis) captures multiple X-ray images and creates a 3D image, providing clearer views of breast tissue.
2-D Mammographytakes a single image from two angles.
3-D offers better clarity, reducing callbacks and making it easier for doctors to detect potential issues, especially in women with dense breast tissue (about 40% of women).

Breast Cancer Screening Guidelines
The American Cancer Society recommends:
Baseline Mammogram at age 35
Every two years until age 40, and then annually after age 40.
Women with concerns (e.g., family history) may follow a different schedule as advised by their doctor.

Stereotactic Breast Biopsy
If an abnormality is detected, a Stereotactic Breast Biopsy may be recommended. This non-surgical procedure uses imaging technology to guide a needle for tissue sampling. Your radiologist will determine if this is appropriate.

Questions or to schedule?
Call (270) 866-4141, ext. 108.

Radiology General Information & Frequently Asked Questions
     1. Hours of Operation: The Radiology/Imaging Department is available 24/7, 365 days a year. Some exams do require scheduling in advance. If you have any questions regarding which exams need to be scheduled, or if you need assistance with anything else, please feel free to contact us at (270) 866-4141, ext. 139.
     2. Radiologist Reading Fees: There will be a separate bill for the radiologist's fee for reviewing your exam. For questions about the radiologist’s reading fees, please note that these are handled separately from hospital billing. Please contact the following numbers for inquiries about charges: 1-800-282-9221 or 1-866-757-4524.
     3. What are Pre-Certs? Pre-certifications (Pre-Certs) are approvals from your insurance company required for certain tests before they are performed. Common tests that may require Pre-Certs include CT scans, ultrasound echoes, and nuclear medicine stress tests. Please be aware that your ordering physician’s office is responsible for obtaining Pre-Certs, not the Radiology Department.
     4. Radiology Reports: After your exam, your radiology report will be sent from the Medical Records Department directly to your physician’s office. For any questions about your report, you can contact the Medical Records Department during business hours: Monday - Friday, 7:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Central Time at (270) 866-4141, ext. 129/131.
     5. Exam Copies for Physicians: If your physician is out of town, we will provide a CD of your exam for them. Local physicians can access your exam electronically via Amicas PACS (available to all local physicians and some out-of-town providers). In order to view your study, they will need to download a reader app. If your CD doesn't load properly, please contact the Radiology Department at (270) 866-4141, ext. 516 or 517.
     6. Doctor’s Orders: All radiology exams require a valid order from your doctor. Please make sure that the necessary order is submitted before your exam.
     7. Report Availability: Most radiology reports will be available to your physician within 48 hours. However, some exams may take longer. If you need to know the estimated time for your specific exam, feel free to ask the technologist at the time of your visit.
     8. Exams with IV Contrast: Exams that involve intravenous (IV) contrast may require additional lab work, which can increase the time needed for your exam. Please allow extra time if this applies to your procedure.
     9. CT Abdomen and Pelvis Exams: For CT Abdomen and Pelvis exams, oral contrast is usually required. You will be asked to drink one bottle of contrast initially, followed by a second bottle 30 minutes later. Your scan will occur about 30 minutes after the second bottle is consumed.
     10. Possible Delays: While we strive to keep things running on schedule, please be aware that there may occasionally be delays due to factors such as surgery patients, emergency room cases, lab results, or delays in obtaining pre-certifications or physician orders. We appreciate your patience and understanding during these times.

The Russell County Radiology/Imaging Department is committed to providing you with efficient, high-quality care in a compassionate environment. Thank you for choosing us for your imaging needs!