Offering Manicures and Massages to Boost Mammogram Screenings

Published on the Oct. 24, 2011, DiagnosticImaging.com website

By Whitney L.J. Howell

The last time you performed a mammogram, your patient probably didn’t have freshly manicured nails, and she likely didn’t leave her cocktail outside the exam room door.

But many practices and hospital imaging departments nationwide are using manicures, wine, massages, and other activities to bring women in for their annual breast screenings. These so-called mammogram parties have received an extremely positive response from patients, officials said.

Since March, the diagnostic imaging department at Provena St. Joseph Medical Center in Joliet, Ill., has held a monthly mammogram party. An uptick in scheduled appointments was evident almost immediately.

“These parties have been received really well by both our patients and our technologists,” said Jan Ciccarelli, Provena’s director of marketing and community relations. “For our techs, it’s been great because the women are festive. They’re in a good mood, and it’s a great opportunity to educate them about self-exams and annual testing.”

Along with desserts and drinks, the women receive manicures, pedicures, and chair massages from graduating cosmetology students. These treats are free to the women – they’re only responsible for their normal insurance co-pay. But, Ciccarelli said, these events don’t have to cost you much either. Partnering with your hospital’s chefs and spa professionals who will volunteer their time can keep these events from impacting your bottom line.

To read the remainder of the article: http://www.diagnosticimaging.com/womens-imaging/content/article/113619/1976076