Following are some of the more commonly asked questions regarding breast thermography.  You may have others.  If you do, feel free to send us an email or schedule a free consultation.  We are here to assist you in any way we can.  You have my word on that.

Does it Hurt:

No.  Thermography is a procedure that does not involve any contact with your body.

Is there any radiation?

No.  Thermal imaging is totally passive.  Rather than using radiation to visualize potential pathology, thermography measures the thermal signature of your breast tissue.  Underlying pathology alters your thermal signature.

How long does the procedure take?

For your first thermogram we schedule one hour.  The procedure takes less time but I make time to discuss your thermogram, thermography in general and answer any questions you might have.  Subsequent thermograms take about 30 minutes.

Will I receive a copy of my images and report?

Yes

Will my doctor receive a copy of the report?

Yes.  We will provide a copy of the report to any physician(s) or health care providers you would like.

Do I need a referral?

No.  If you have a referral great.  If not, that is fine as well

How much does it cost?

The price is $235.  This includes the cost of the thermogram, the reading and reporting on the thermogram, and a follow up appointment to review the results and answer any questions you might have.

Will insurance pay for thermography?

Unfortunately no.  We have been told recently some cancer insurance policies are paying for thermography, but its best to assume there is no coverage.  Although this is unfortunate, the benefits of thermography make the expense well worth it.

Does thermography replace mammography?

Thermography and mammography are two separate technologies.  Mammography is looking for anatomical changes and thermography is looking for physiologic changes suggestive of underlying pathology.  Although an increasing number of health care providers are utilizing thermography as the primary screening modality, this is not the standard of care and since no technology is perfect, combining technologies is a superior approach.  Having said that, mammography leaves much to be desired and it seems just about everyone knows someone who’s cancer was missed by a mammogram.  In fact the data is about 23 percent of breast cancers are missed by mammography.  A superior diagnostic tool is breast MRI’s, but these are far more expensive, time consuming and involve the use of contrast agents making the procedure invasive.  This makes them impractical for widespread screening.  Keep in mind that mammography, or even breast MRI does not replace thermography.  Thermography provides information unavailable by other means.  Risk assessment and the ability to “see” unhealthy breast tissue which results in a greater lifetime risk of breast cancer.  By knowing your breast tissue is unhealthy, you can take steps to be proactive and reduce your risk.

Who should receive a thermogram?

The short answer is all women 20 years old and older.  I have seen women in their early 30’s with breast cancer.  This means the cancer was present in their 20’s.  Establishing a baseline at an early age will aid in detecting future changes suggestive of pathology.

I have a women’s group that is interesting in learning about breast thermography.  Do you offer presentations on thermography?

Yes.  I have done many presentations and always appreciate the opportunity to speak.  I also am happy to offer presentations on acupuncture.  Just give the office a call.  There is no cost.  How can you beat this – free entertainment.

What if I require additional assessment or care following a thermogram?

Your continued care is extremely important to me.  I offer continuing care and have a network of physicians and nurse practitioners familiar with breast thermography that I routinely refer patients to as well.  Rest assured, if you require ongoing care or further assessment, you will receive the care you need from compassionate, knowledgeable professionals that are familiar with thermography, natural medicine, alternative and complementary therapies as well as conventional approaches to breast care.  Helping you achieve optimal health is what we all strive for.