She said an annual screening mammogram is an important tool for detecting breast cancer early, when it’s most treatable.
“The #BreastFriendsForever campaign was launched in October of this year. We are really trying to use the power of social media to spread awareness. What this campaign is, is we want women to use the hashtag #BreastFriendsForever to tell their story, and inspire their friends and loved ones to get their annual mammogram. Sometimes, that’s all it takes,” Seidenschmidt said.
Women can join the month-long #BreastFriendsForever challenge by getting their mammogram and by challenging loved ones and friends to get theirs, too.
Here’s how the #BreastFriendsForever challenge works:
1. Schedule your mammogram.
2. Challenge a friend to do the same.
3. Share your story to social media using #BreastFriendsForever
Seidenschmidt said one in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer. It’s the most common cancer in women. According to the American College of Radiology, 40,000 women die from breast cancer annually.
Women over 40, who have no symptoms of breast problems can schedule a screening mammogram without a physician’s order. Patients can schedule an appointment through their Premier Health MyChart account at mychart.premierhealthpartners.org, or by calling (855) 887-7364, or by going online at www.premierhealth.com and clicking on Schedule Services.
Many women may also choose Premier Health’s new mobile mammogram coach, which makes annual breast cancer screenings convenient and comfortable.
“We’ve had very positive feedback, and some of the women are women that would not typically schedule a mammogram, but if they see one out where they live or work, it really encourages them to get a mammogram. It’s making it very convenient for patients,” said Seidenschmidt.
“Women often take care of everyone else. They’re busy, taking care of family and spouses, and I think it’s important for them to make sure they take the time to take care of themselves and get this important screening,” Seidenschmidt said.
After logging thousands of miles over nearly four years, the previous coach was starting to show signs of its age. The new, larger 40-foot long coach, operated by Atrium Medical Center, is furnished with a more comfortable and upscale reception area, enhanced security features, and an automatic awning, which will provide shelter at community and private events.
Equipped with advanced imaging equipment, the new coach continues to offer traditional 2D and Genius 3D Mammography technology to detect breast cancer. It also offers private dressing rooms and an all-female staff.
Women can schedule their mammogram on the mobile coach by calling (844) 453-4199. More information about the process and coach locations is available at premierhealth.com/mammo. Mobile mammograms are offered six days a week, and appointments fill up quickly. Financial assistance is available for patients who are underinsured or do not have medical insurance.
Premier Health also welcomes partnerships with area businesses and event organizers to bring the new mobile mammography coach to locations throughout the community. For more information, call (513) 705-4794 or visit premierhealth.com/mammo.
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