Screening mammogram.
Diagnostic mammogram.
2D mammogram.
3D mammogram.
There are different types of mammograms and mammogram machines, and it may be hard to know which you might need when the time comes. The process of getting a mammogram is usually the same for all, but the type used at your exam will depend on your clinic, your insurance and your symptoms, if any exist.
Read on to learn more about the different types of mammograms.
Screening mammograms vs. diagnostic mammograms
Breast cancer screening mammograms are considered preventive
When most people think about mammograms, they think about screening mammograms – a preventive health tool that’s the most common breast cancer screening method and is used when the person has no breast cancer symptoms.
Most health insurance plans, including Medicare, cover 2D mammograms for breast cancer screening at 100%, so there’s no cost to you. Many plans also cover 3D mammography. But before you make a mammogram appointment, it’s always a good idea to check with your health insurance company about your coverage for screening mammograms and how often you can get one. For example, do your exams need to be at least 12 months apart or can you get one anytime during the calendar year.
Diagnostic mammograms are used when there’s a breast health concern
Diagnostic mammograms are performed when a radiologist sees an area of concern on a screening mammogram or when a person has symptoms, such as a lump or breast discharge, that need closer imaging evaluation. You’ll typically get your results before you leave.
If you’re experiencing breast symptoms, making an appointment with your primary care doctor or clinician is the best first step. They’ll be able to determine if a diagnostic mammogram makes sense.
Diagnostic mammograms are not considered preventive and are billed differently than screening mammograms. You’ll likely have some out-of-pocket costs, so you should check with your health insurance provider about what’s covered before scheduling your appointment.
If you have HealthPartners insurance, you can use our Know Your Cost service, which provides personalized cost information and estimates for health care services. Just call 844-997-2678.
2D vs. 3D mammograms
All mammograms use X-ray technology to capture breast images, and there are two types of X-ray imaging used today – 2D and 3D. Both 2D and 3D mammograms are used for cancer screening and detection, and require about the same amount of time. The primary difference between 2D and 3D mammography is the type of mammogram image they create.
2D mammograms create flat images of breasts
2D mammograms have been used to find breast cancer since the 1960s and are the most widely available. 2D mammography machines take digital pictures of your breasts from the top and side to generate flat images that don’t distinguish between the multiple layers of breast tissue.
3D mammograms create three-dimensional breast images
3D mammograms, also called breast tomosynthesis or tomo, is a newer technology. While taking X-ray images from the top and the sides, the machine moves in an arc motion (like a rainbow) over your breast to take multiple images of your breast tissue layers. The images are then digitally layered over each other to create a detailed three-dimensional image of your breast, which can provide additional information to your doctor.
When a 2D vs. 3D mammogram may be recommended for breast cancer screenings
2D mammograms have been the standard breast cancer screening method for many years. Generally, 2D is considered sufficient for those of average risk for breast cancer. But 3D mammograms are often recommended for those who have dense breast tissue or other risk factors for developing breast cancer.
Specifically for those with dense breast tissue, 2D imagery can sometimes make detection more difficult since the mammogram shows all the overlapping layers as a single image. But a 3D image can help radiologists better assess the health of the breast tissue since they can review the images as distinct layers, which can help improve the accuracy of breast cancer detection and diagnosis.
3D mammography has the potential to improve cancer detection and decrease the number of false positive screening exams, no matter your breast density. But those with dense breasts or known to be at higher risk for breast cancer can benefit the most from 3D mammography.
If getting a 3D mammogram is a financial burden, 2D mammograms are still a great option that you can be confident in. Also, if you don’t have insurance, screening mammogram costs can vary based on your state, where you go for care and if you choose 2D or 3D mammography.
The good news is that, under the National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program (NBCCEDP), you may be eligible for a no- or low-cost screening if you are between the ages of 40 and 64, do not have insurance coverage for screening exams and meet specific income criteria. To find out if you’re eligible, call the local NBCCEDP program for your state:
You may also be eligible for Medicaid. To learn more, visit the Medicaid website.
