Breast Imaging and Mammography

CHA is committed to helping prevent and detect breast cancer. We use the latest technology, including 3D Mammography (tomosynthesis), to look for changes or abnormalities in your breasts that may be cancer.

You can feel confident getting your mammogram and other breast imaging and testing at CHA. We are proud to be a nationally recognized Breast Imaging Center of Excellence, and have earned accreditation in Breast MRI, Breast Ultrasound and Breast Biopsy. Our helpful, highly trained staff will make your visit easy and stress-free. We are also commited to getting you answers quickly, and will contact you with your results as soon as possible.

The latest breast imaging technology

At CHA, you get 3D Mammography, also known as digital breast tomosynthesis. This is the most advanced method available. Standard mammograms produce only a single picture of the breast tissues, but 3D Mammography provides more detail. This makes it easier to see anything unusual in the breast, like a lump or tumor. This is available at both our Cambridge and Everett hospitals.

Appointments: Please call 617-665-1298.

What’s it like to get a mammogram?

There are two kinds of mammograms: Screening mammograms, which your doctor will recommend, depending on your age and family medical history; and diagnostic mammograms. Diagnostic tests are used to check a lump or examine symptoms and changes in your breast.

Most breast imaging requires squeezing or compressing the breasts. This may be a little uncomfortable, but usually isn’t painful. Our technologists, who are all women, will do their best to make the process quick and easy.

If we see something unusual on your screening mammogram, we may ask you to come back for a follow-up test. Usually there’s nothing wrong; we just need to get better images. If we find something on your repeat or diagnostic mammogram, your doctor may order an ultrasound or MRI—two other kinds of scans, also available at CHA. They may also order a biopsy. In a biopsy, a small sample of breast tissue is taken for more testing. This can be done at CHA as well.

Previous mammograms

If you have had mammograms in the past, outside of Cambridge Health Alliance, it helps to bring those films with you to your appointment. Comparing your mammogram to earlier scans helps us see any changes in your breasts over time.

Locations and Hours

For more information about your test please visit the RadiologyInfo website.