CHILLICOTHE — Residents of Ross County can schedule a potentially lifesaving screening close to home when Adena Health brings its mobile 3D mammography unit to the Ross County Health District on Oct. 5. The screening event begins at 8 a.m. at 150 E. Second St. in Chillicothe. Appointments are required, and organizers encourage anyone who is due for a screening to reserve a spot early. The mobile unit uses 3D mammography technology, which can help doctors distinguish harmless abnormalities from cancers. Health officials say that precision may lead to fewer callbacks for additional testing after screening exams, reducing stress for patients.
To be eligible for a screening mammogram, participants must be at least 40 years old. Those under 40 need a physician’s order. Participants should also be at least twelve months out from their previous mammogram and should not be pregnant or breastfeeding. Women experiencing symptoms such as pain, lumps, or nipple discharge should contact their doctor directly rather than scheduling a screening visit. The mammography services are accredited by the American College of Radiology. Those attending should bring a driver’s license, insurance card, and physician information. Adena Health also recommends wearing a two-piece outfit with a button-down blouse if possible and limiting deodorant use before the exam. Most insurance plans are accepted.
To register, contact Jamie Kelley, radiology operations manager, at 740-779-8221. Organizers say mobile screenings like this one are especially important in southeast Ohio, where travel distances can keep rural residents from getting preventive care.