There’s no need to wait for October’s Breast Cancer Awareness designation; RiverView Health’s Diagnostic Imaging Department is ready now to offer the latest and most accurate 3D mammography technology in a new, comfort-focused suite.
While RiverView’s previous mammography unit served patients well for many years, new advances bring the opportunity to enhance patient comfort, improve clinical performance, and heighten the overall experience, shared Brianna Iverson, director of the department.
“The mammography suite upgrade is a huge step forward for RiverView, and we’re thrilled to be able to bring this level of technology to our patients,” she stated. “Patient comfort and image quality are at the heart of this change. Mammograms can be stressful and even uncomfortable, and our goal is to make the experience as positive as possible.”
Easing Fears, Pain
Studies show that pain is the number one complaint during mammograms, with seven out of 10 women experiencing some degree of pain, including force of compression, pinching, and duration of compression. Among women who have never had a mammogram, 49% cited fear of anxiety and pain as significant concerns and reasons for avoidance.
RiverView’s new suite is designed to ease pain, with new curved technology that better accommodates the natural shape of the breast, distributing pressure more evenly and reducing pinching. In fact, 93% of women who underwent a mammogram using the new features reported an increased level of comfort.
“This isn’t just new equipment—it’s the latest and greatest in mammography technology,” Iverson reported. “The system allows for faster scans and sharper images, especially of deeper tissue. That means less time in compression for patients and better diagnostic confidence for our providers. It’s truly a win-win.”
Strong Leadership at the Helm
Another win for patients receiving mammography services at RiverView is the addition of Alisa Leas to the program. Leas is a dedicated radiologic technologist who has been with the department for over 12 years.
“We are so fortunate to have Alisa leading the way with this new suite,” Iverson said. “Alisa is a wonderful example of RiverView’s commitment to excellence – she’s multimodality certified and continually pursues new certifications. We couldn’t be luckier to have her at the helm of this exciting new chapter.
“RiverView is committed to making sure patients don’t just receive the highest quality care, but also feel supported and comfortable every step of the way. This new suite is one more way we’re living that mission.”
Mammograms Save Lives – One Could Be Yours
Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women in the United States, except for skin cancer, according to the American Cancer Society. About 316,950 new cases of breast cancer will be diagnosed in 2025, and about 42,170 women will die from breast cancer.
However, there’s good news in the fact that breast cancer mortality in the United States has decreased by 40% since 1990, thanks, in large part, to the rising use of mammography. It’s a preventative measure that works if you use it.
Regular mammograms are the best method doctors have for detecting breast cancer early—sometimes up to three years before the cancer can be physically felt.
It is recommended that women of average risk undergo a mammogram annually, starting at age 40. Women with a personal history of breast cancer, dense breasts, or certain genetic mutations may be at higher risk. All women should discuss screening options with their primary care provider.
If cost is a factor in deciding whether to schedule a mammogram, RiverView participates in the Sage Screening Program. This program aims to keep Minnesotans healthy by providing free screenings and early detection for breast and cervical cancer, as well as colorectal cancer, for those who are uninsured or underinsured. Eligible individuals can access these free screenings. For more information, call 888-643-2584.
A referral for a mammogram is not necessary. To schedule a mammogram, call RiverView’s Diagnostic Imaging Department at 281-9428.