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Screening mammograms are essential for breast health. But getting to an imaging center isn’t always easy.
Mobile mammography units (MMUs) can help you get preventive breast screenings. They deliver lower-cost mammograms to local communities.
Here’s what to expect if you’re considering an MMU for your next mammogram.
A mobile mammography unit is a traveling breast imaging service. MMUs became popular in the 1970s and during the COVID-19 pandemic.
MMUs are similar to traditional imaging centers. However, instead of going to a hospital or clinic, your exam will happen in a specially equipped vehicle. The goal of MMUs is to improve patient adherence to organized breast cancer screening.
MMUs perform screening mammograms outside of a fixed healthcare facility. They travel to locations where people already live, work, or gather.
MMUs typically stop at places like:
Vans, buses, and empty building spaces may be transformed into MMUs. They include private intake, changing areas, and exam spaces.
MMUs usually specialize in screening mammograms. This is the first step of breast cancer screening, meant for people who don’t have a history or suspicion of breast cancer. However, you might be able to find other services nearby.
MMUs may pair up with other mobile healthcare programs, especially if they’re part of a larger health fair or event. In addition to mammograms, you may find other services like screening for cervical cancer or osteoporosis.
A fixed-site mammography center is a permanent healthcare location. These include hospitals, outpatient imaging centers, and breast clinics.
MMUs and fixed sites are similar in several ways.
The mammogram itself is the same in a mobile versus traditional imaging facility. MMUs must maintain the same quality standards you’d find at fixed-site facilities.
The equipment captures X-ray images of breast tissue to look for changes or abnormalities. Then, the results are reviewed by qualified radiologists.
Mobile programs often rotate to different communities on scheduled dates. For example, a unit might visit a rural town once a month or appear at a community center several times per year.
Some operate on a “walk-in” basis. Others require you to register in advance.
Because space is limited inside the vehicle, appointments are often scheduled carefully. Visits may move quickly to help serve as many people as possible.
Many MMUs include patient navigators or coaches to help arrange follow-up care if needed.
If your results at an MMU are unclear or abnormal, you may need additional imaging tests. The MMU may refer you to a fixed location for the next level of testing.
MMUs serve people from all walks of life who need screening mammograms. These include those who don’t have symptoms of breast cancer but are the recommended age for screening (usually beginning around age 40).
Research shows that many people delay mammograms for various reasons. Fear of a painful exam and receiving bad news are common barriers.
Some people have trouble traveling to an imaging center because they don’t have transportation. Others feel they can’t take time away from work and family responsibilities to attend their appointments. Cost is another common barrier.
Some MMUs operate at corporate sites to screen those with private insurance. They may be part of an employer wellness program.
However, MMUs are traditionally meant to help boost mammogram rates among people who are less likely to get screened otherwise. These are sometimes referred to as “underserved populations” and may include:
MMUs are more popular among people with transient lifestyles than those with stable, consistent housing. They can also help reach people who may underestimate their risk of breast cancer or not fully realize the benefits of screening.
Here’s where to look for MMUs if you’re interested in visiting one.
Organizations such as the American Cancer Society help connect people with local breast cancer screening resources. You search for your state on their website, start a live chat, or call for information. The phone number is 800-227-2345.
MMUs may be affiliated with large hospitals. You can call nearby hospitals, breast centers, or imaging departments to ask about mobile mammograms. You can also check the website and social media sites of healthcare facilities near you to look for announcements and schedules.
Many nonprofit organizations organize screening events and awareness programs.
Local breast cancer advocacy groups may sponsor mobile mammogram visits, especially during campaigns like Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October.
Sometimes libraries or local government agencies arrange MMUs to visit the community. You can find these events advertised in local newspapers or library newsletters.
Here’s what usually happens before, during, and after a visit to an MMU.
MMUs are meant to be user-friendly. The scheduling process is usually simple. Some even allow for walk-ins.
If an appointment is required, you may need to provide:
If you have a lump, nipple discharge, breast pain, or a history of breast cancer, you may need a more detailed diagnostic mammogram at a fixed site.
A few practical steps may help the visit go smoothly:
If you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, or have breast implants, be sure to mention this before your exam.
The experience at an MMU is similar to visiting a regular mammography center. The procedure itself doesn’t change because it takes place inside a mobile unit.
Most appointments take about 20 minutes, although total visit time may vary.
When you arrive, the staff usually verifies your information and completes paperwork. You may need to answer questions about medical history, breast health, and previous mammograms.
The unit typically includes a private changing space. You’ll remove clothing above the waist and put on a gown.
During the exam, a technologist positions one breast at a time on the mammography machine. The breast is compressed briefly between two plates while X-ray images are taken.
Compression can feel uncomfortable for some people, but it lasts only a short time. The pressure helps spread breast tissue to produce clearer images.
Usually, several images are taken from different angles. Then, the process is repeated for the other breast.
After imaging is complete, the images are reviewed by a radiologist. You should be able to return to normal activities after your exam.
Results may be provided by mail, over the phone, or electronically. You’ll probably hear back sooner if the radiologist thinks you’d benefit from having another screening.
If you need a follow-up visit, don’t panic. Most of the time, a callback doesn’t mean there’s cancer. It just means the healthcare provider wants a closer look to be sure.
On MyBCTeam, people share their experiences with breast cancer, get advice, and find support from others who understand.
Have you ever been to a mobile mammography van or bus? Let others know in the comments below.
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