The Auxiliary to Paoli Hospital pledged $500,000 to support The Breast Health Center. Hospital President Barbara Tachovsky, center, and Dr. Robert Fried, the center's medical director, accept a donation from Auxiliary President Peggy Mason.

(October 2004)  Women can now access breast care services easier and in one location at the Breast Health Center at Paoli Hospital, which opened in October. From screening mammograms to certain noninvasive biopsies, "the Center streamlines services so waiting times are diminished and women receive the information they need to make informed decisions about their care, often in the same day," said Robert Fried, MD, Chief of the Main Line Health Medical Staff who leads the initiative as Director of The Breast Health Center.

The Center, located on the first floor of the hospital near the Emergency Department, features a decor of light hues, a refreshment area, and other amenities to create a comfortable, spa-like atmosphere. Free valet parking is available to outpatients.

The team of radiologists, board-certified surgeons experienced in breast disease, medical oncologists, radiation technologists, and pathologists are using the most advanced technology: digital mammography with computer-aided detection, breast ultrasounds, and ultrasound-guided biopsy. Patients also have access to stereotactic breast biopsy. 

The sophistication of digital mammography allows for greater magnification of breast images to reduce the number of repeat mammograms. Also by storing digital mammograms in the hospital's picture archiving system, radiologists will be able to compare a patient's test from year to year, allowing them to better track changes in breast tissue.

Donna Fitzpatrick-Lehnert, RN, the Breast Care Coordinator, provides education and support to women and guides them through follow-up services and consultations when needed. Oncology social workers and genetic counselors are available to consult with women who are at high risk for developing breast cancer. 

"Our Breast Care Coordinator is a big plus to the Center," Dr. Fried said. "She makes sure women will receive the additional tests and information they need, help with referrals, expedite procedures and answer their questions."

Another feature is the ability of women to schedule mammograms on a "fast track" or a regular appointment. Those who elect a fast track will have their mammograms read while they wait and diagnostic tests scheduled immediately for suspected problems.

Dr. Fried said additional tests and consultations should be set up within 48 hours for any woman whose mammogram looks suspicious. "What may take up to two weeks should take no more than two or three days at the new Center," said Fried. "It's important to shorten the wait time for psychological reasons. Breast cancer isn't spreading during that time, but the anxiety women experience in going through the process is high."

Establishing a comprehensive Center in the western Main Line is vital to serving Chester County's growing population, hospital officials say. Paoli performs 1,000 mammograms a month, a number that increases with the county's rapid development. Philanthropic support from the hospital's Foundation and Women's Auxiliary helped kick off the funding for the $2 million project.

Click here for information about The Breast Health Center at Paoli Hospital, or call 610-648-1461.  

Published:10-14-2004