At the Norville Breast Care Center, we’ve created a warm, supportive environment where women have convenient access to highly-advanced technology for breast cancer screening. Our patients will also discover experienced nurses and technologists who take the time to answer questions, calm fears, explain tests and procedures, and make sure patients receive prompt follow-up testing and care when needed.

Our center, located on the campus of Alamance Regional Medical Center, features convenient, designated parking and a private entrance.  The patient-friendly design also includes individual dressing and waiting areas for mammography.  

Digital Mammography – Digital mammography has been offered at Alamance Regional since 2002, making our facility one of the first hospitals in the area to implement digital mammograms.  Digital mammography allows physicians to focus on or magnify areas of concern, which enhances readability and interpretation of the image.  

Our mammography technologists are certified in radiology (ARRT) and have obtained additional certification in mammography. Our mammography services are fully accredited by the American College of Radiology and the Food and Drug Administration.

For your convenience, digital mammograms are also offered at the Mebane Outpatient Center.  This state-of-the-art facility also includes individual dressing and waiting areas.

Breast Ultrasound – Ultrasound uses sound waves to produce a visual picture of the breast. It is most frequently used to determine whether a lump in the breast is fluid-filled or solid. Ultrasound is also helpful in examining younger women with very dense breasts, where it can complement the findings of mammography.

Biopsy Procedures –  We offer advanced biopsy procedures, including stereotactic biopsies. Radiologists on the Alamance Regional medical staff also offer ultrasound guided biopsies.

Bone Density Screening – Bone Densitometry (DEXA) – Bone densitometry is a test used to detect osteoporosis. A low-dose X-ray checks for signs of mineral loss and bone thinning. Usually the spine, hip and forearm are X-rayed, and scan results are reviewed by a physician.

Resource Center – Our resource center allows patients to learn about breast self-examination, breast health, and women’s health issues. The resource area includes a computer with Internet access and printed publications and brochures.

Breast Health Specialists – Certified beast health educators who are also certified oncology nurses are available to answer patients’ questions about mammogram reports, breast-self exam, biopsies and other concerns.

Nurse Navigators – These nurses also serve as navigators, helping ensure that follow-up tests are performed quickly and offering patients support and guidance throughout breast cancer testing and treatment.

Healing Touch Therapy – Patients who have an abnormal mammogram or need additional breast cancer screening are able to receive healing touch therapy. Healing touch helps reduce stress and anxiety, promote relaxation and restore a sense of well-being. Certified healing touch practitioners use light touch to influence the body’s energy system. Our certified healing touch practitioners offer care in the Pastoral Care and Counseling Department at the Grand Oaks Center on the Alamance Regional Campus.

Breast and Cervical Cancer Control Program (BCCCP) – Women who are uninsured or underinsured may be eligible to receive a free mammogram and pap-smear through the Breast and Cervical Cancer Control Program (BCCCP).  For more information about eligibility for this program, call 538-7599.

Genetic Risk Assessment – Patients who have a family history of breast or ovarian cancer may choose to receive genetic risk assessment.  The assessment includes an initial meeting with a nurse trained in genetic risk assessment and an oncologist to discuss genetic testing, the option to complete testing for gene mutations, and a follow-up appointment with the oncologist to discuss test results and options for cancer prevention and screening. This service is offered on campus in the Alamance Regional Cancer Center.

Breast Cancer Support Group –  A breast cancer support group meets each month at the Norville Breast Care Center. This group includes newly diagnosed breast cancer patients, those currently undergoing treatment and long-term survivors.

Bone Density Screening - We also offer bone densitometry (DEXA), a test used to detect osteoporosis. A low-dose X-ray checks for signs of mineral loss and bone thinning.

The Importance of Screening  –  Breast cancer is treated more successfully when found early, so following screening guidelines is important. The best way to identify breast cancer in its early stages is using a combination of monthly self-breast exams, annual physical exams and regular mammograms.  The American Cancer Society recommends the following guidelines:

• Beginning in their 20s, women should perform monthly breast self-exams (BSE).
• Women between the ages of 20 and 30 should have a breast exam by a healthcare provider every three years. Women age 40 and older should have a clinical exam annually.
• All women 40 years and older should have an annual mammogram. Your physician may recommend a different screening schedule based on your family history, current health or symptoms.  

For more information about the Norville Breast Care Center, call 336-538-7577.