Hi Sue! I have “dense” breast tissue noted by the radiologist who read(s) my mammograms so that allowed me to get a breast MRI every year too. So I now get 3D mammogram (called “diagnostic mammogram”) and the MRI annually in order to find any tumor that’s growing anywhere inc. nodes (only MRI catches the nodes). It’s one every 6 mths so two “scans” every year. You just need “dense” breast on the radiology report to get this covered.

Just some info for you or others.

If you have dense breasts get a fast /smart breast MRI! My early stage CA was found only on MRI. Mammogram didn’t pick it up and neither did ultrasound. In most states insurance has to cover MRI for dense breasts but even if it doesn’t, pay the $350-$400. Your health is everything.

Same here.

Sue10, My breast surgeon has ordered an MRI in between mamograms,because of dense breast. It's surprising that my medical oncologist referred me back to the breast surgeon when I requested an MRI in addition to mammograms.
Brenda57 is right you have to remind them and you really have to take good notes and ADVOCATE for your health.

I have radiation fibrosis and tissue reconstruction. I also had some lymph node involvement with my cancer. My surgical oncologist has told me that she intends for me to receive a once annual MRI. I actually see her next week, for my post-reconstruction follow-up, and I'm going to ask her when she plans on me getting my first screening MRI. I'd definitely ask your care team about the possibility of an annual MRI to screen for recurriance.