FAQ

The frequently-asked questions about EBCD are answered here. If you have further questions, please contact us at info@myebcdmammo.com.

 

EBCD demonstrated measurable clinical results even in its initial pilot period:

  • More than 100 radiologists detected additional cancers through EBCD reviews.
  • In a four-month study of EBCD, one imaging center showed a 17% reduction in recall rates. (A recall is the need for a patient to return for further imaging to determine results.)
  • More than 400 cancers were detected at an earlier stage with the EBCD process.
  • In dense breasts, 15% more cancers were found through the EBCD program.

Yes, you are welcome to call us back and select the added service at any time leading up to your appointment. After your exam has been completed, we can no longer offer EBCD for that exam, but it will be offered to you for your next screening exam.

Not at all. No additional radiation or time during your visit is required; you safely gain the benefit of higher accuracy.

EBCD is available only on screening mammograms. Screening mammography is used to detect breast cancer before any symptoms are present, while diagnostic mammograms are performed when symptoms are present, in order to confirm if there may be breast cancer and whether treatment is required. EBCD is available for women aged 35 or older.

The artificial intelligence (AI) does not replace the radiologist; rather it provides additional information to the radiologist which allows for the most accurate mammogram possible. Our sub-specialty trained breast radiologists are integral in every step of the interpretation of mammography exams.

The AI points out areas of suspicion but the radiologists must use their training and expertise to apply that information to the final interpretation of the exam.

Patients who opt-in to the program pay a $40 fee. EBCD is not currently covered by most insurance plans.

Insurance coverage is often the last step in mainstream adoption of new technology. EBCD is a recent advancement in mammography using AI, and it is similar to many new technologies in that it is not yet eligible for reimbursement by Medicare or most private insurers. (Certain health plans are now covering EBCD for their participants.) Coverage often takes time, and we are optimistic that more carriers will recognize the benefits of EBCD and structure their plans accordingly.

Yes. EBCD should be reimbursable under your FSA or HSA plan. Check your plan for details on coverage.

The AI software utilized in EBCD was trained on more than a million images; 100,000 cases; and 8,000 biopsy-proven cancers from highly diverse populations. It has been shown to perform consistently across different races and ethnicities. Our team of engineers and scientists have presented abstracts in professional imaging organizations worldwide to demonstrate these results.

When the radiologist is reading your exam, the AI technology points out areas of suspicion and provides suspicion levels. The radiologist uses their training and expertise to analyze that information for the final interpretation of the exam. The radiologist determines whether follow-up imaging or tests are needed.

Breast cancer can suddenly appear between yearly checkups. EBCD helps to detect breast cancer at its earliest stages, for the most accurate results at every screening.

The EBCD program is available only for screening mammography. Consult with your physician to determine the optimal type of screening for you, factoring in your family history and current health.

Yes, absolutely! You are being screened on the latest and most advanced Hologic imaging technology available. In addition, you receive the same high-level care from trained, certified, professional mammography technologists and specialized radiologists who are respected experts in the field.