October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Eisenhower Health Expands Access to Breast Cancer Screenings with New Self-Referral Program, Advanced Detection Technology and New Clinics

In recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Eisenhower Health is excited to announce new initiatives to enhance access to life-saving breast cancer screenings, introduce multidisciplinary care, and provide preventive services for high-risk patients. With new technology, specialized clinics, and a convenient self-referral process, Eisenhower Health continues its commitment to comprehensive breast care and early detection.

Breast Cancer Multidisciplinary Clinic
Starting in October, Eisenhower Health will launch its Breast Cancer Multidisciplinary Clinic, which offers patients the opportunity to meet with a team of specialists in one day. Patients will see a breast surgeon, medical oncologist, radiation oncologist, and a social worker - allowing for streamlined care planning and support. This clinic will be held on the third Wednesday of each month, providing patients with timely, coordinated care.

“Our Breast Cancer Multidisciplinary Clinic ensures that patients receive a personalized care plan, all within one visit,” says Katie Schnaser, Chief Administrative Officer, Eisenhower Lucy Curci Cancer Center. “We aim to reduce the stress that comes with waiting for multiple appointments by offering a comprehensive approach to care.”
High Risk Breast Clinic
In addition to the Multidisciplinary Clinic, Eisenhower Health is also introducing a High Risk Breast Clinic, designed for patients at elevated risk for developing breast cancer due to family history, genetic predispositions, or other factors. This clinic will provide specialized screenings, risk assessments, and preventive care options. The High Risk Breast Clinic will operate on the second and fourth Fridays of each month, starting in October.

“Our High Risk Breast Clinic allows us to provide tailored care for those who are at greater risk of developing breast cancer," continues Schnaser. “It’s about giving patients the preventive tools and support they need to stay ahead of the disease.”

New Self-Referral Mammogram Process
Making it easier than ever for women to stay proactive about their health, Eisenhower Health has introduced a self-referral process, allowing patients to schedule their screening mammograms without needing an order from a health care provider. This service helps eliminate barriers, ensuring that every woman has access to critical screenings that can help detect breast cancer at its earliest stages.

“Early detection is the best defense against breast cancer, and our new self-referral process allows women to take control of their health without needing to wait for a provider’s referral,” says Danielle Higgins,  MHA, R.T. (R),(M),(BS),(ARRT), Director, Eisenhower Health Breast Center. “We are dedicated to making breast cancer screenings as accessible and convenient as possible.”
Advanced Technology for Enhanced Accuracy 
In addition to offering easier access to screenings, Eisenhower Health has also upgraded its breast imaging technology. All three of its breast center locations will offer cutting-edge 3D AI computer-aided detection, providing enhanced accuracy in screening mammograms. Additionally, Eisenhower Lucy Curci Cancer Center is equipped with new contrast-enhanced mammography biopsy software for high risk patients unable to undergo MRI.

Extended Evening Hours for Screening Mammograms
Understanding that life can get busy, especially for working women, Eisenhower Health is pleased to offer evening hours for screening mammograms at the Anne and Kirk Douglas Breast Center in Palm Springs and the Eisenhower Schnitzer/Novack Breast Center in Rancho Mirage. The Eisenhower Schnitzer/Novack Breast Center in La Quinta will offer extended hours in the coming months.  Patients will be able schedule appointments after regular work hours, making it more convenient than ever to prioritize their health.

Breast Cancer Awareness Basket Drawing 
As part of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, patients visiting any of the three Eisenhower Breast Centers - the Anne and Kirk Douglas Breast Center in Palm Springs or the Eisenhower Schnitzer/Novack Breast Center in Rancho Mirage and La Quinta - during October will be entered into a drawing for a special breast cancer awareness basket. Each facility will have its own basket, with one lucky winner per location. Each visit or appointment counts as an entry into the drawing.

Commitment to Breast Cancer Awareness
In recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Eisenhower Health continues to lead the charge in the fight against breast cancer by improving accessibility to screenings, utilizing the most advanced technologies available, and raising awareness of the importance of early detection.

To schedule a mammogram, please call 760-773-4338. To learn more about the new clinics, please visit eisenhowerhealth.org/breast.
 

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