Patient-Centered Breast Imaging and Specialized Treatment

Steven Marks*

^*President, MedCom Consultants, Inc, Potomac MD

Address correspondence to: Steven Marks, MedCom Consultants Inc, 1311 Fallsmead Way, Potomac, Maryland, 20854. Email: steven.marks52@gmail.com.

Disclosure statement: Steven Marks reports having no financial or advisory relationship with any corporate, medical, or political organization doing work related to this paper or other business activity at MedCom Consultants, Inc.

 ABSTRACT

Decision-making in radiology has traditionally been based on the guidelines developed from research findings into risk factors and age-based demographics. This biomedical model has rarely incorporated patient's preferences, concerns, and values, while the clinical implications of such factors as disability and body habitus have usually been de-emphasized when procedural decisions are made. Well-documented disparities in the delivery of radiologic services, especially for breast screening, have ensued, which can compromise the relationship between healthcare providers and patients, and as a result, the quality of care.

Patient-centered care is a newer approach that is beginning to reshape the practice of radiology. In this alternative model, healthcare providers and patients join together to ensure the delivery of evidence-based care that is cognizant of and responsive to the values, needs, and preferences of each patient. Patient-centered care is grounded in clear communication and cooperation during the planning, delivery, and evaluation of care. Psychosocial issues, reimbursement concerns, and cultural considerations are all addressed in an open manner that is respectful of each patient's humanity. Patient-centered care is particularly important in the setting of breast screening of patients with special considerations. Mammographers play an important role in ensuring that patient-centered care becomes part of the routine delivery of mammography examinations, thereby promoting long-term consumer satisfaction and trust. All of these considerations and the role that mammographers play in patient-centered care, specifically in regards to breast imaging patients with a wide variety of needs, will be explored and discussed.