The benefits of digital mammography to patients include a faster, more comfortable test that provides the highest quality image for the radiologist.

Most patients can be scheduled within a week for a screening mammogram when they call for an appointment, and most importantly, there is no longer any need for women to travel outside of the community for this important service.

Even though mammograms remain the most effective diagnostic tool for early detection of breast cancer, studies show that the number of women getting theirs regularly is on the decline. Among the reasons, experts suspect, are that more women are losing their healthcare benefits.

The American Cancer Society recommends that all women have an annual mammogram starting at age 40. Early detection improves the chance that breast cancer can be located, diagnosed and treated successfully. For those women without health insurance or who are underinsured, the Mammogram Voucher Program (MVP) offers free screening mammograms, breast ultrasounds and other breast services at participating area hospitals for those who qualify.

Grove City Medical Center is an MVP-participating provider. The Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure, Pittsburgh Affiliate, provides the funding for this program with the proceeds from their annual Race for the Cure. For more information, or to see if you qualify, please call the MVP at 1-888-687-0505.