On September 22, Stony Brook Cancer Center’s Mobile Mammography Van arrived at a milestone: providing its 5,000th cancer screening. Since 2018, the custom-built, 40-foot state-of-the art van has been on the road to offer free mammograms in Nassau and Suffolk communities.
“We’re bringing healthcare to people who find it difficult or burdensome get to a doctor’s office or the hospital,” said Patrick J. Dineen, MD, MBA, program coordinator for Stony Brook Cancer Center’s Mammography Mobile Screening Program. “The beautiful thing about this mobile program is the positive impact it has on the communities we serve. Over half the patients screened on the mobile unit are uninsured and this allows them to get a mammogram at no cost.”
On the mobile unit, which has the latest 3D digital mammography equipment, patients have an individualized experience as only one is allowed in at a time. There’s a comfortable check-in area, one-way windows, a fully equipped exam room, a changing room and the mammography suite. In addition to a free mammogram, all patients leave with educational materials. Fifteen minutes is all it takes to participate in this valuable service.
“It’s important to Long Island because this mobile unit is making it much easier for women to access mammograms,” Dr. Dineen said. “We’re bringing the same great care you get at Stony Brook Cancer Center right to them, in their own neighborhood.”
While people are encouraged to schedule an appointment, the van can accommodate walk-ins. For more information, call
833-MY-MAMMO or visit bit.ly/SBMammoVan.
Read the complete story at the Stony Brook Cancer Center website.
Add comment