We Care. For You.

At DBC, our motto is: “We Care. For You.” Our number one focus is to deliver the very best breast health care in a respectful, harmonious environment. We are also advocates for patient empowerment. This means that, in addition to breast care, we are a resource for education about breast health and other aspects of health and healthy living. An informed person is a healthier patient! Please check out the items below for more information.

DBC CARES

Screening for breast cancer is very important. The recommendations for screening are not necessarily straightforward, and many women need tailored recommendations for their specific experiences. One woman’s breast cancer risk is not necessarily the same as her friend’s or her sister’s. There are many factors that must be considered when creating a breast cancer screening regimen.

Here are some common questions asked about breast cancer risk and screening:
  • How does my family history affect my screening needs?
  • Do I have a genetic mutation? Should I get tested for one?
  • Do I need a breast ultrasound? How about an MRI?
  • How often should I get mammograms? Do I need 3D mammography?
  • DO I NEED SCREENING MAMMOGRAMS AT ALL?

DBC CARES is a program that addresses these questions and more. DBC CARES tailors a woman’s breast cancer screening regimen based upon many of the factors that affect breast cancer risk. At an office visit with Dr. Quarterman, all of a woman’s health and family information is gathered in one place and evaluated. The end result is a detailed explanation for her about what her breast cancer risk is, and why. This information is then used to recommend a breast cancer screening plan as well as (if needed) genetic mutation evaluation or breast cancer risk-reducing measures.


There are five components to DBC CARES:

 

  1. Conversation
  2. Assessment
  3. Risk calculation
  4. Education
  5. Surveillance

 


  • Conversation

    Dr. Quarterman listens to and answers any questions or concerns you have about your breasts. Your personal and family history are discussed (this includes any breast biopsy or surgery results).  Dr. Quarterman asks questions to get as much information about you as possible.  The conversation will cover anything that you and/or Dr. Quarterman feel is relevant to your health.

  • Assessment

    Assessment. Dr. Quarterman examines your breasts, with careful attention to any areas of concern for you.  She also closely reviews any breast imaging (mammogram, ultrasound, MRI) that you have had, if available.  If she finds anything that needs further attention, she address it with you right away.

  • Risk Calculation

    Dr. Quarterman uses a verified and widely used model to calculate your personal breast cancer risk.  Your risk is compared to the general population.

  • Education

    Dr. Quarterman explains how the components that go into your risk calculation affected your risk.  She will teach you which, if any, of those components can be controlled.  She’ll also tell you what you can do to reduce your risk.  If you are a candidate to consider genetic testing, Dr. Quarterman will talk about it and you can have the testing performed right in the DBC office.  If you are NOT a candidate, she will explain why.

  • Surveillance

    All of the information gathered at the visit is distilled into a recommended breast cancer screening plan specifically for you.  That plan may include ultrasound or MRI, and you’ll discuss it.  Some women should have screening every 6 months rather than yearly, and you’ll learn what the most appropriate schedule is for you.  If you like, Dr. Quarterman will take charge over your breast cancer screening schedule and help you stay on track with imaging appointments and results.  She will also see you yearly or more, depending on what your specific risk and personal breast history are.  Of course, you can also take all of this information back to your primary care physician and incorporate it into your preexisting health care regimen!

Every new DBC patient over age 35 will be offered the CARES program at her first visit, regardless of her reason for coming in. If you’d like to participate in the CARES program, please call us!