What's the difference between a screening and a diagnostic mammogram?

What's the difference between a screening and a diagnostic mammogram?

Screening mammograms are routine annual exams for women who are not experiencing any breast issues or symptoms of breast cancer. Screening mammograms usually take less than 30 minutes and results are received via email in two business days or less. Screening mammogram appointments can be scheduled without a doctor's order at most of our locations.

Diagnostic mammograms are for women experiencing suspicious breast changes, such as a new breast lump, dimpling or puckering of the skin, pain in the breast, or nipple thickening or discharge. A diagnostic mammogram includes additional targeted images used to evaluate the abnormal findings of a screening mammogram. Diagnostic mammograms take a little longer than a regular screening and you will have a consultation with the radiologist to determine if additional procedures are required. A doctor's order is needed to schedule a diagnostic mammogram appointment.