Breast Health
Breast Basics
All breasts are not created equal. That's why we offer several breast imaging services.
When it comes to proper breast health, we have everything you need at North Kansas City Hospital. No matter your breast condition, you can expect expert care — from screening and diagnosis to treatment and recovery.
Breast Health Services
A big part of breast health involves getting regular breast screenings. These screenings can help us catch conditions like breast cancer early (before it spreads outside the breast), when it’s most treatable.
Our Women's Imaging Center is an ACR Breast Imaging Center of Excellence staffed with caring and qualified radiologists, nurses and technologists who provide the best screening options for you.
Breast Screenings
We offer these breast screenings
- Mammography (breast tomosynthesis) is the most advanced breast cancer detection technology available. The device works by compressing the breasts, which enables radiologists to examine breast tissue layer by layer for a more detailed — and highly accurate — view. And that means fewer unnecessary biopsies, tests and false positives.
- Automated Breast Ultrasound (ABUS) is a second-step screening tool that supplements a screening mammogram. If your first mammogram shows you have dense breasts, your doctor may recommend ABUS since it’s specifically designed to see through dense breast tissue. ABUS requires a doctor’s referral.
Other Tests
- Breast MRI is a diagnostic tool that helps radiologists determine if a biopsy is necessary. It provides clearer images than mammography or ultrasound. A breast MRI requires a doctor's referral.
- Stereotactic breast biopsy is a procedure that uses special mammography equipment to help radiologists locate a breast lump or abnormality so they can remove a tissue sample for closer examination. This type of biopsy is less invasive than a surgical biopsy.
Wonderful Employees
"Dr. Brecheisen and two ultrasound techs did a mammatome on me. They were absolutely fantastic. They were patient, kind and caring. One of the nurses talked to me through the entire procedure because I was so scared. That, along with the narrative of the doctor explaining everything was so helpful. Afterwards the mammography tech was equally kind. The care and kindness I've been shown by the Women's Center during several visits is unlike any other place I've gone. You have some wonderful employees who go beyond just their jobs." ~ Mary Jo, WOW comment
Insurance Coverage
Before you get a procedure, it’s always helpful to talk with both your health provider and health insurance team about possible costs. Most of the time, screening mammograms are covered as preventive services under the Affordable Care Act. For screening mammograms, we will not charge you a co-pay or deductible and will submit a claim to your insurance company on your behalf. A diagnostic mammogram and other services likely will be subject to out-of-pocket charges.
Breast Care Nurse Navigator
Kelly Filipponi, RN, OCN - Breast Care Nurse Navigator
Leading up to surgery and throughout your road to recovery, lean on our nurse navigator to help you make informed decisions that fit your needs.
Kelley started her nursing career in Pittsburgh, PA, and graduated in 2004 from the University of Pittsburgh Shadyside Hospital School of Nursing. She continued working for the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center and began her oncology nursing career in 2008.
She became a nurse to have a positive impact and improve a patient’s day-to-day life. Kelly's connection with oncology patients has taught and inspired her in her life as well.
Her husband's career brought them to Kansas City in 2016. She has worked at North Kansas City Hospital since January 2017. Kelly and her husband have two teenagers who keep their nights and weekends filled with practices, games and voice lessons.