For over 30 years, Steinberg Diagnostic Medical Imaging (SDMI) has been a leader in radiology in Southern Nevada. Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, SDMI has remained open to be a community resource for anyone needing diagnostic radiology and to ensure patients continued to have access to the potentially lifesaving procedures they need.

One of those procedures is Mammography. Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women worldwide.  And while the statistics proving the efficacy of mammography are staggering, so are the statistics of women who haven’t had a Mammogram in the last two years. According to the CDC, over 35% of women ages 40-plus have delayed this potentially lifesaving exam. This is not good news given that early detection of breast cancer has a 90% survival rate. However, without an early diagnosis, that rate drops dramatically.

SDMI reminds patients that suspending their annual screening mammogram can have consequences. A recent Swedish study touts results showing Mammography can decrease the risk of breast cancer death by up to 41 percent.  “The current study, observing more than half a million women over many years, leaves no doubt that screening has been effective in reducing the risk of death from breast cancer,” (To read the full study recount click here)

As patients determine what procedures are essential for them, SDMI has implemented several safety precautions with a goal to empower patients to take an active role and prioritize their healthcare.

When you arrive at an SDMI facility, you can trust that sanitation and cleanliness have always been a promise made to patients, ensuring facilities are spotlessly clean. Not only do the staff and leadership teams insist on clean facilities, it is an integral part of the AAAHC (Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care) Accreditation as well as ACR DICOE (American College of Radiology Diagnostic Center of Excellence) certification both of which are held at all SDMI facilities across the valley.

Since March, SDMI has enhanced their safety and security measures even further to protect staff and patients as well as put them at ease. Screeners are stationed at the entrance of every location to take temperatures, ensure everyone is wearing a mask and offer hand sanitizer. Additionally, each patient is given a brand new pen that is theirs to use throughout their visit and take home after exams are completed. Waiting areas are clearly marked to encourage physical distance and no guests (unless necessary) are allowed to accompany patients to their appointment.

Mammograms and other screening studies are easily delayed due to busy schedules or any number of reasons, but fear of an unsafe experience should never be a factor when deciding to schedule a potentially lifesaving exam. We are always here for you.  

Photo: Courtesy of Steinberg Diagnostic Medical Imaging