Second opinion clinic available at Maryellen Locher Breast Center
Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women after skin cancer, according to the American Cancer Society (ACS). It estimates more than 13,000 women in Tennessee and Georgia will be diagnosed with breast cancer this year. Many woman feel overwhelmed when they have an abnormal mammogram or are diagnosed with breast cancer, and have many questions. The MaryEllen Locher Breast Center at CHI Memorial offers a Second Opinion Clinic to help women explore all options in order to choose the best care for their journey.
A second opinion involves a review of your imaging and/or biopsy results. Women whose mammogram showed an abnormality can seek a second opinion before a having a biopsy. Others may want help understanding their diagnosis or have questions about treatment options. A multidisciplinary breast care team including breast surgeons, oncologists, a dedicated breast imaging specialist and pathologist will review breast imaging and pathology results to develop a personalized treatment recommendation. The multidisciplinary team will review your case within one week. A women’s health nurse practitioner (WHNP), who coordinates the Second Opinion Clinic, will review the recommendations with each woman.
“Getting a second opinion gives women assurance they have an accurate diagnosis and the appropriate comprehensive care plan,” says Kathy Dittmar, market director, oncology operations, CHI Memorial. “We want to empower women and offer them peace of mind that they have the best information possible.”
Women interested in getting a second opinion for an abnormal mammogram or for treatment options after a breast cancer diagnosis can call 423- 4956744. A nurse navigator will explain the process of the Second Opinion Clinic based on the woman’s concerns and will guide her through obtaining the necessary records for our breast specialists to review.
A physician referral is not necessary to receive a second opinion. Many insurance policies cover a second opinion review.
For more information about the MaryEllen Locher Breast Center, visit www. MaryEllenLocher.com or call 423-495-6744.
CHI Memorial is a not-forprofit, faith-based healthcare organization dedicated to the healing ministry of the Church. Founded by the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth and strengthened as part of Catholic Health Initiatives, it offers a continuum of care including preventative, primary and acute hospital care, as well as cancer and cardiac care, orthopedic and rehabilitation services. CHI Memorial is a regional referral center of choice with 3,500 associates and more than 600 affiliated physicians providing health care throughout Southeast Tennessee, North Georgia and Northwest Alabama.