Frequently Asked Questions

Question 1

What tests can I get done?

Accepted Answer

Unlike other radiology clinics, your appointment at the SBC is comprehensive and completed in one day. It includes a consultation with your specialist, followed by a mammogram and/or ultrasound, biopsy if required, and your results are returned to you face-to-face at the end of your appointment.

Question 2

How long will it take?

Accepted Answer

Requirements vary for each patient, so every appointment is unique. We advise allowing up to 4 hours in the clinic for a standard appointment to ensure all necessary testing can be completed.

Question 3

Do you only accept high risk patients?

Accepted Answer

We welcome patients of all risk profiles. Our model ensures patients only undertake the tests necessary to achieve a diagnosis. We frequently see high-risk or symptomatic patients who need more comprehensive assessment, and we also provide general screening for asymptomatic patients.

Question 4

Can I get a mammogram if I am on my period?

Accepted Answer

Yes. It is safe to have mammographic testing while on your period, though your breasts may be more sensitive.

Question 5

Do you have MRIs?

Accepted Answer

We provide mammograms, ultrasounds and biopsies. If further imaging is required, our breast specialists can refer you for an MRI off-site.

Question 6

Is there a chance I will have surgery in your clinic?

Accepted Answer

On-site procedures are non-surgical biopsies and cyst aspirations. Our breast surgeons can consult at our clinic and arrange surgery at the hospitals they attend, if required.

Question 7

Can I have a mammogram if I have breast implants?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Our radiographers are trained in mammography for patients with implants. Additional views are taken, including implant-displaced images, with minimal pressure on images that include the implant.

Question 8

Why do I need a mammogram if I will need an ultrasound as well?

Accepted Answer

Some cancers are only visible on mammogram and others only on ultrasound. For women with dense breast tissue it is best practice to have both tests.

Question 9

What is CEM?

Accepted Answer

Contrast Enhanced Mammography (CEM) injects an intravenous contrast agent immediately before a dual-energy mammogram. Subtracted images show blood distribution in breast tissue, improving lesion visibility in dense tissue.

Question 10

Is CEM an additional mammogram?

Accepted Answer

No. CEM adds contrast dye before your standard mammogram and does not require a second mammogram.

Question 11

Who can get CEM at the SBC?

Accepted Answer

CEM is available to all patients. It may be most helpful for those with increased breast cancer risk, dense or lumpy breasts, current symptoms, or current/past breast cancer. It is not advised if you have an iodine allergy, kidney disease/impairment, or are pregnant. It is suitable while breastfeeding.

Question 12

Do I need to specify ahead of time if I want CEM?

Accepted Answer

No. During your consultation you can discuss whether CEM is appropriate. No prior arrangement is required.

Question 13

Do I need to fast before my SBC appointment if I am interested in CEM?

Accepted Answer

No fasting is required.

Question 14

Can I have CEM if I have breast implants?

Accepted Answer

Yes. CEM is safe and viable for patients with implants. Positioning follows standard protocols for implant mammography.

Question 15

Will Medicare and government services cover the costs?

Accepted Answer

Unique rebates may be available for Medicare, Pension, Government Healthcare (excluding Seniors Card) and Veterans card holders. Bring eligible cards to your appointment so rebates can be processed.

Question 16

Will private health insurance cover the costs?

Accepted Answer

Private health cover varies. After your appointment you will receive an itemised receipt to lodge any claims with your fund.

Question 17

Do I need to pay my account on the same day?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Full payment is made on the day; we accept major credit cards. Eligible rebates are lodged by us on the day and usually refunded within a week. If biopsies are taken, an external pathology fee (generally Medicare-rebateable) may be issued 5–7 working days later.

Frequently Asked Questions

Get in Touch

Your SBC Appointment

Breast Imaging – Mammogram & Ultrasound

Contrast Enhanced Mammography (CEM)

Fees and Appointment Logistics

Frequently Asked Questions

Get in Touch

Your SBC Appointment

What tests can I get done?

How long will it take?

Do you only accept high risk patients?

Breast Imaging – Mammogram & Ultrasound

Can I get a mammogram if I am on my period?

Do you have MRIs?

Is there a chance I will have surgery in your clinic?

Can I have a mammogram if I have breast implants?

Why do I need a mammogram if I will need an ultrasound aswell anyway?

Contrast Enhanced Mammography (CEM)

What is CEM?

Is CEM an additional mammogram?

Who can get CEM at the SBC?

Do I need to specify ahead of time if I want CEM?

Do I need to fast before my SBC appointment if I am interested in CEM?

Can I have CEM if I have breast implants?

Fees and Appointment Logistics

Will Medicare and government services cover the costs?

Will private health insurance cover the costs?

Do I need to pay my account on the same day?