Improving access to mammography in rural areas

Many rural areas do not have reliable or adequate access to breast cancer evaluation facilities and care. With the advent of digital mammo-graphy it is possible to send high quality mammographic images across teleradiology/telemedicine networks for interpretation at certified mammo-graphy centers. We have a statewide telemedicine network upon which telemammography is conducted with a number of very rural locations. Strict turn-around times for interpretation are guaranteed in contractual agree-ments. We are also testing the use of ultra-rapid pathology clinics for women with positive mammograms and real-time consultation with oncologists to reduce the time it takes for rural women to receive care.