Maximizing the referral of older women for screening mammography
J. P. Lemkau, K. Grady and S. Carlson
Wright State University School of Medicine, Dayton, Ohio, USA.
The primary care physician is in a crucial position to facilitate
mammography referral of women older than 50 years. Physician
underestimation of the importance of the physician role or overestimation
of patient resistance can result in lost opportunities for referral.
Research is summarized on the impact of physician encouragement on use of
mammography and on sources of reluctance to get mammography as reported by
patients. Common patients' concerns are discussed. Mammography referral can
usually be accomplished successfully by raising the issue and briefly
addressing patients' concerns in regard to breast cancer and screening
mammography.
