February 9, 1999

SUBJECT: Policy Memorandum – Mammography Screening for Active Duty Women

A baseline mammogram shall be recommended for all active duty women at age 40, every 1 to 2 years from ages 40-49, and annually from age 50 and over. Counseling regarding screening mammography every 1 to 2 years from 40-49 should be documented in the medical record and include the known risks and benefits of the procedure. For high-risk women, defined as a family history of breast cancer in a first degree relative, baseline mammography should begin at age 35 and then annually. In addition, mammography shall be provided for active duty women at any age who have been identified by their health care provider as requiring additional screening as indicated by individual risk factors. The patient must have a referral from a health care provider for a mammogram to ensure that test results are tracked and the patient receives appropriate follow-up care.

Appointment times shall be within four weeks for a screening mammogram and results shall be provided to the patient within 14 days. If evaluation by a health care provider requires mammography for diagnosis, e.g., for a lump, the test shall be provided within five working days of when it is ordered. Test results shall be available to the patient within 5 days of the test.

My point of contact for this project is COL Margaret Knapp, who may be reached at (703) 681-1703.

 
Dr. Sue Bailey

cc:
Surgeon General of the Army
Surgeon General of the Navy
Surgeon General of the Air Force

HA Policy 99-009