Mammogram
Schedule a Mammogram
Mammography
We know that when it comes to staying on top of your breast health, preventative care is a key part to staying healthy. We are here with the expertise and compassionate care to help you navigate your imaging journey.
Our Comprehensive Cancer Center offers breast imaging services in two locations, Palm Springs and La Quinta, to provide easy scheduling with flexible appointment times that work with your busy life. We also offer convenient breast imaging services at our Hi-Desert Medical Center in Joshua Tree.
In addition to screening mammography, our teams at the Comprehensive Cancer Center work together to provide support through all stages of your breast health journey. From diagnosis, to treatment, to recovery and support, our doctors don’t just work in the same place—they work on the same cases, collaborating in a team environment. You don’t just get one doctor on your side — you get a team of specialists with decades of experience in cancer treatment. Find out more about our breast health services at this link.
We advocate open communication between our experienced imaging staff and your doctor so you can get the exceptional care you need, when you need it.
What Is the Purpose of a Mammogram?
A mammogram is an X-ray image of the breast, which doctors use to look for early signs of breast cancer and other breast abnormalities. The imaging method is called mammography. It is used as both a diagnostic and screening tool.
What Happens During a Mammogram?
During a mammogram, a patient stands in front of a special medical X-ray machine while a technologist places the patient's breast on a flat plate. The breast is compressed with a parallel plate called a paddle, which holds it still while the X-ray is being taken. The process only takes a few seconds for each breast. This helps minimize blurring of the X-ray image that can be caused by movement. Compression also evens out the shape of the breast, so that the X-ray can travel a shorter path.
These steps are repeated for the other breast. For some women with breast implants or larger breasts, more images may be needed. The whole procedure generally takes about 20 minutes.
Your breasts may be more sensitive if you are about to have or currently having your period. Inform the technologists at once if you feel any pain.
Contact us for more information
To schedule an appointment, call (855) 580-4230 or fill out the form below:
By submitting this form you agree to receive periodic health related information and updates. We welcome your comments, questions and suggestions. We cannot give you medical advice via e-mail. To discuss any medical symptoms or conditions contact your physician or other healthcare professional. In the case of a medical emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room immediately.
3D Mammography, also known as Tomosynthesis, is ideal for women with dense breasts because it gives radiologists a more detailed view of the breast tissue, helping to find smaller cancers earlier. The advanced technology also decreases the number of false positives. There is same day follow-up available if additional imaging is needed, which results also available that day.
Mammogram guidelines are issued by various medical organizations. For more information, please review the chart below for women with average risk:
| Age to Start Mammography | Age to Stop Mammography | Mammography Interval | |
| American College of Radiology/Society of Breast Imaging | 40* | No age limit, tailor to individual health status | Annual |
| American Cancer Society | 45 option to start at age 40 | When life expectancy is less than 10 years | Annual 45-54; Every 1 or 2 years 55+ |
| American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists | Offer at 40, not later than 50 | Age 75, then shared decision making | Every 1 or 2 years |
| American Medical Association | 40 | Not Stated | Annual |
| American Society of Breast Surgeons | 40 | When life expectancy is less than 10 years | Annual |
| National Comprehensive Cancer Network | 40 | Upper age limit for screening is not yet established | Annual |
| U.S. Preventive Services Task Force | 40 | 74 years | Every 2 years |
* African American, Hispanic and Asian women have peak incidence of breast cancer in their 40s and should begin screening at least by age 40.
Please talk with your health care provider about the best screening guidelines for you.
Residents of the Coachella Valley can schedule a mammogram at Desert Regional’s Comprehensive Cancer Center, which has convenient locations in Palm Spring and La Quinta. Residents of the high desert communities can schedule a mammogram on the campus of Hi-Desert Medical Center in Joshua Tree.
Comprehensive Cancer Center, Palm Springs
1180 N. Indian Canyon Drive, Suite E218
Palm Springs, CA 92262
(760) 416-4700
Comprehensive Cancer Center, La Quinta
47647 Caleo Bay, Suite 260
La Quinta, CA 92253
(760) 771-6158
Hi-Desert Medical Center
6601 White Feather Rd
Joshua Tree, CA 92252
(760) 366-6358
Our team is ready to provide you with comprehensive screening services including:
- 3D digital screening mammography
- Digital diagnostic mammography
- Stereotactic biopsies
- Ultrasound-guided biopsies
- Breast Ultrasound
- Breast MRI
- Bone density screenings
- Myriad genetic testing for breast cancer
-
Mammogram
Our imaging facilities facilitate a wide range of medical imaging procedures Please call (800) 491-4990 and speak with a specialist today. -
Breast Health Services
Advanced technology and mammography may detect even small abnormalities. -
Mammogram Locations
-
Financial Arrangements
Manage your imaging service payments efficiently. Provide accurate details and payment information for a smooth billing process at our facility.
-
Schedule Diagnostic Imaging