Scheduling Diagnostic Exams Now Easier Than Ever
WEST PALM BEACH, Fl. — October 1, 2026 — October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and Palm Beach Health Network is encouraging women age 40 and older to take a simple step for their health: get a screening mammogram or talk with their healthcare provider about their personal breast cancer risk and what screening is right for them and when. For those women who have specific concerns, such as experiencing pain or other breast changes, Palm Beach Health Networkhas made it easier than ever to schedule a diagnostic exam to determine if they have breast cancer.
“Too often women put off regular screening because they are focused on their families or because screening has become confusing. While they take care of others, it’s important this October that women save some time for their own health care,” said Sherry Lemon, manager of the Norma E. & Mies M. Zisson Comprehensive Breast Center of the Palm Beaches at Good Samaritan Medical Center, part of Palm Beach Health Network. “Breast cancer screening isn’t something women should have to figure out on their own. We encourage women 40 and older to have a conversation with their doctor about the screening approach that is appropriate for them. If you’re due for screening, October is a great time to put it on the calendar. And, if you notice something is not normal with your breast, you can now schedule a diagnostic exam directly so you can quickly get the answers and peace of mind you need.”
Breast cancer is the second most common cancer among women in the United States, only behind skin cancers. The American Cancer Society estimates that more than 321,000 women will be diagnosed with invasive breast cancer in 2026, with more than 42,000 women expected to die from the disease.
Mammograms are a crucial tool for finding breast cancer early. When done routinely, the x-ray can detect differences that may be breast cancer before they cause symptoms. The five-year relative survival rate for breast cancers detected and treated early, before it has spread beyond the breast, is more than 99 percent.
Current national recommendations emphasize beginning breast cancer screening discussions at age 40. The type and frequency of your screening should be determined in consultation with your physician.
“There’s no single screening schedule that’s right for every woman,” said Lemon. “Your age, family history, personal medical history and other risk factors can all be part of that conversation. The important thing is to have the conversation.”
Women should also talk with a healthcare professional if they notice a new lump or swelling, changes in breast size or shape, skin dimpling or irritation, nipple changes or discharge, or other unusual changes. If you are experiencing symptoms, or if the routine mammogram shows changes, you may need a diagnostic mammogram, which is a more detailed x-ray that can help determine if cancer is present. Palm Beach Health Network is now empowering patients with a QR code to directly schedule a diagnostic exam without having to first see a referring physician. This enables women with specific concerns to get the answers they need more quickly and efficiently.
Ready to take the next step?
Women who have discussed screening with their healthcare provider and are due for a mammogram can scan the QR code below to schedule breast cancer screening with Palm Beach Health Network. Have specific concerns? Schedule a diagnostic examwithout a referral today.
“Taking care of your health doesn’t have to be complicated,” said Lemon. “If you’re 40 or older, start with a conversation. Know your risk, know your screening plan and take the next step. If you notice changes, don’t wait, take action today.”
About Palm Beach Health Network
The Palm Beach Health Network (PBHN), comprising six hospitals and care centers spanning Palm Beach County, is the largest healthcare network in Palm Beach County. Our hospitals, including Delray Medical Center, Good Samaritan Medical Center, Palm Beach Children’s Hospital, Palm Beach Gardens Medical Center, St. Mary’s Medical Center, and West Boca Medical Center, along with a large multi-specialty physician group, various ambulatory surgery centers and outpatient diagnostic facilities, is recognized for providing the highest quality healthcare, combining cutting-edge health services with patient-centric care. With the greatest longevity in the community, along with hospitals and care centers that span the entirety of Palm Beach County, more patients trust PBHN than any other in the region.
