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	September 18, 2008 Digital Mammography Now Available at HVRA’s Southbury Imaging; Mammograms $125 for Non-Insured Southbury Women During October Learn More... May 28, 2008 HVRA Receives Echo Quality Assurance Recognition Learn More... May 10, 2008 HVRA Ridgefield Hosts Ribbon Cutting and Open House Event Learn More...

FAQ: Understanding Breast MRI
FAQ: Understanding Digital Mammography

Why do I need to arrive 15 minutes before my actual appointment time?
My child is having an examination. Will I be able to stay with my child during the exam?
Do I need to accompany my teenager for his/her appointment?
Who will perform my exam?
Why does the radiologist interpret my exam, and not my personal physician?
When will I receive my test results?
Is there a private area for me to leave my personal valuables and change into the gown?
Will my mammogram be painful?
What does it mean if I am called back for additional pictures at a later date?
Why do you need all of my prior films?
Are there any radiation-related safety risks?

Why do I need to arrive 15 minutes before my actual appointment time?

Preparation for your exam is very important for your safety and for ensuring the most accurate reading. Our staff needs the time to review your paperwork, ask you follow-up questions if necessary, and properly prepare you for your examination. These extra 15 minutes allow us to give each patient the necessary attention, and ensure that we stay on-schedule for others.
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My child is having an examination. Will I be able to stay with my child during the exam?

If your child is under 5, or is unable to go into the examination room him/herself, we will allow a family member to accompany him/her.
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Do I need to accompany my teenager for his/her appointment?

If your child is under 18 years of age and can drive to and from his/her appointment, you do not need to be present-however your child must bring a note signed by his/her parent or guardian giving HVRA permission to perform the examination.
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Who will perform my exam?

Our highly trained technologists perform most examinations, while radiologists perform other studies, such as fluoroscopy and certain ultrasound procedures. All of our technologists have had extensive training and experience in performing these procedures and are registered as certified professionals. For more information on a specific exam, visit our Services section.
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Why does the radiologist interpret my exam, and not my personal physician?

A radiologist is a physician just like your family doctor, except that he has been specially trained in performing and interpreting results of diagnostic imaging exams and biopsy procedures. Our radiologists have done additional fellowships (sub-specialties) in such areas as CT, ultrasound, MRI, and many other areas. All of our radiologists are certified by the American Board of Radiology, which means that the very best doctors available are evaluating your case.
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When will I receive my test results?

Your doctor will be sent preliminary results either the same day or within 24 hours of your exam in most cases*. In the event of a medical emergency, we will notify your physician immediately of your results. An official report of your test results will be sent to your doctor in 24 to 48 hours of your exam. HVRA has a solid record of completing results within 24 hours 95% of the time for all routine tests. You must contact your doctor first to discuss test results.

* If you are an HVRA-Danbury mammography patient, you will receive your test results on the day of your visit.
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Is there a private area for me to leave my personal valuables and change into the gown?

Yes. Our changing rooms are private, clean, secure and comfortable.
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Will my mammogram be painful?

Usually not, however, some women have sensitive breasts and it can seem uncomfortable momentarily. It is necessary to compress the breast tissue to fully evaluate your images. We recommend that you schedule your appointment for the week after your period, as your breasts will be less tender during this time.
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What does it mean if I am called back for additional mammography pictures at a later date?

Occasionally, the radiologist will request an additional exam in order to fully evaluate your study. In most cases, there is nothing to be concerned about. To ensure that you will not have to make an additional visit, our goal is to view the images before you leave our offices so that additional views, if necessary, may be taken prior to your departure (Danbury office only).
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Why do you need all of my prior films?

It is important for the radiologist to see how your new films compare with old ones, as it helps to identify subtle changes that may have occurred since your last examination.
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Are there any radiation-related safety risks?

For those exams that use radiation, such as X-ray and "CAT" Scan, risk of radiation exposure is greatly minimized as technology continues to advance. In addition, we take every measure to ensure the utmost safety of our patients and our staff through stringent equipment test procedures and upgrades. Many exams, such as ultrasound and MRI, use no radiation at all so there is zero exposure. For more information on radiation and safety issue, visit http://www.radiologyinfo.org/content/safety/rad_safety.htm.
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