KOOTENAI COUNTY, Idaho — Two new breast imaging centers in North Idaho aim to improve the state’s breast cancer screening rates.
When it comes to breast cancer, the earlier you can catch it the better.
“We know that breast screening saves lives. Catching a breast cancer early, which is done through screening, saves lives,” said Dr. Michalina Kupsik, Breast Surgical Oncologist at Kootenai Health.
But what if you have to drive hours away from home to get imaging done, book an appointment months in advance, or have more than just your basic imaging done? This can make it hard to detect breast cancer early on. That’s why Kootenai Health has opened these two imaging centers.
The facilities in Coeur d’Alene and Post Falls feature 3D mammogram units, bone density scanners, and ultrasound machines that can detect breast cancer in dense breast tissue.
“Previously, women would have to get their imaging done with the general radiology group. So there be more crowding in the waiting area. Now, there’s a bigger waiting area for just women coming for imaging. And we have decreased wait times because there’s just more machines available,” explained Dr. Kupsik.
“Having digital mammograms that do 3D imaging catches masses earlier and is better at detecting those masses. Automated full breast ultrasound also can help with screening women that are at a higher risk and take some of the challenges of density out of the picture,” she added.
Idaho ranks 50th out of the states for breast cancer screening rates. These new screening locations make care more convenient for North Idaho residents.
“I think one of our biggest problems is access in Idaho compared to other states,” said Dr. Kupsik. “But also, we want to make sure that there’s trust between the patients and the community and their physicians and providers.”
These new facilities come just a month after the Idaho Legislature passed a bill that would require insurance to pay for additional breast cancer screening for women who are at higher risk.
“They don’t have to get lost in the shuffle going from one appointment to the next. They can get their screening done here. They can have their breast surgery done here,” said Dr. Kupsik.
Kootenai Health says these centers respond to what women have been asking for: more access and a more comfortable process during a potentially scary time.
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