Making the Switch to SJRA
Making the Switch to SJRA is first in a 3-part series where patients share their experiences with South Jersey Radiology Associates.
Christy, a South Jersey Radiology Associates patient, shares her journey switching to SJRA for mammography screening and being diagnosed with breast cancer.
SJRA: Why did you switch to SJRA for mammography screening?
Christy: For more than 20 years, I had my annual mammogram at a university/academic facility in Philadelphia. I received my baseline at age 35 and I never missed a mammogram. I chose the facility on the recommendation of my trusted gynecologist. However, about four years ago, I began hearing about the benefits of the 3D Mammogram available at South Jersey Radiology…fewer callbacks, peace of mind, and greater clarity. SJRA was local and with multiple locations and flexible hours, it could easily accommodate my work schedule. It made sense to stop going over the bridge and to have my annual screening at SJRA. Now that the American College of Radiology (ACR) has recognized South Jersey Radiology Associates as the region’s first Diagnostic Imaging Center of ExcellenceTM (DICOE), as well as a Breast Imaging Center of Excellence, I’m certain I made the right choice when I switched to SJRA.
SJRA: What was the process to transfer your films to SJRA?
Christy: I have to confess, despite hearing about this “miracle” 3D mammogram, I hedged a bit because I had to retrieve my last five years of mammogram films so that SJRA could check my 3D mammogram against my history. I was definitely a bit lazy about it and “too busy” to take the time. I came up with all kinds of excuses. But something inside me said, “Christy, you really should have that 3D mammogram. It leaves no doubt.”
So, I finally took the plunge. I called the Philadelphia facility and asked them to mail me my last five years of mammograms. That took maybe ten minutes during my lunch break. The package of films arrived within a week. Then, I made my appointment with SJRA. They requested that I drop off my films ahead of time so they could scan them and have them ready to go at my 3D mammogram appointment. That took me about a half hour; it really was that simple.
SJRA: Any other advice to women who want to make the switch?
Christy: It’s easy; but whatever you decide, don’t skip your annual screening. Mammograms save lives. And a 3D mammogram offers superior clarity, which means greater peace of mind.
For your convenience, SJRA’s Women’s Imaging Centers offer early morning, late evening, and weekend appointments. Early detection is truly your best protection. Check out our site at https://www.sjra.com/locations for hours and locations near your home or office. And simply click on the 24/7 Badge located at the top of our site to book your appointment instantly online!