When COVID-19 arrived in our communities many individuals opted to delay important routine care, such as mammograms, to avoid potential exposure to the virus. To educate the community about the importance of resuming preventive care, Tower Health Oncologist Nick Leasure, MD, and patient Kayleen Stunz teamed up to create a public service announcement about the benefits of routine mammogram screening.
Regular mammograms are critical for the early detection of breast cancer. Detecting breast cancer in its earliest stages gives women the best chance for effective treatment. The award-winning, high-quality breast health and imaging services offered by Tower Health's hospitals can help identify breast issues before they become larger health problems. That is why it is so important that you do not delay your mammogram.
"Please don't postpone your mammogram," said Dr. Leasure. "There is no need to continue delaying this important screening, and it could be harmful to your health. Tower Health hospitals have carefully planned reopening services to keep our patients and employees healthy."
To accommodate mammography patients safely, Tower Health hospitals have implemented:
- COVID-19 screening for caregivers and patients. All healthcare providers are screened for COVID-19 symptoms prior to the start of each shift, and all patients are screened (temperature checks) for COVID-19 prior to entering the facility.
- Rigorous cleaning and disinfecting protocols. Our outpatient imaging facilities, hospitals, offices, and public areas undergo rigorous cleaning and disinfecting several times per day, in accordance with CDC and DOH infection control guidelines.
- Face masks and the appropriate personal protective equipment are worn by all staff. Patients are also required to bring and wear face masks.
- Modified appointment scheduling is being used to enhance social distancing and to permit extensive cleaning and disinfection of equipment and dressing areas.
- Single-use personal belongings bags are being given to patients to hygienically store clothing and personal items during their mammogram.
Because of her family history of breast cancer, Tower Health patient Kayleen Stunz is committed to her health. She follows a healthy diet, exercises, and gets regular health screening, including annual mammograms and skin checks. "You only have one body and I believe you have to take care of it the best way you can," Kayleen said. "Participating in routine screenings is a great way to ease your mind and know that you are healthy."
About Tower Health
Tower Health is a strong, regional, integrated healthcare provider/payer system that offers leading-edge, compassionate healthcare and wellness services to a population of 2.5 million people. With approximately 14,000 team members, Tower Health consists of Reading Hospital in West Reading; Brandywine Hospital in Coatesville; Chestnut Hill Hospital in Philadelphia; Jennersville Hospital in West Grove; Phoenixville Hospital in Phoenixville; Pottstown Hospital in Pottstown; and St. Christopher's Hospital for Children, a partnership of Tower Health and Drexel University in Philadelphia. It also includes Reading Hospital Rehabilitation at Wyomissing; Reading Hospital School of Health Sciences in West Reading; home healthcare services provided by Tower Health at Home; and a network of 22 urgent care facilities across the Tower Health service area. Tower Health offers a connected network of 2,200 physicians, specialists, and advanced practice providers across more than 230 convenient locations. For more information, visit towerhealth.org.