Decatur County Memorial Hospital (DCMH) is making it even easier to stay on track with annual mammograms.
Building on the success of its online mammogram self-scheduling tool, DCMH has expanded scheduling capabilities so patients can now schedule their next annual screening more than a year in advance. The growing use of online scheduling demonstrates patients’ interest in convenient, accessible options for preventive care.
After completing this year’s mammogram, patients can immediately schedule their next screening and have the flexibility to manage their appointment as their schedules change.
“We’ve seen tremendous success with online mammogram scheduling because it’s convenient and allows patients to schedule when it’s top of mind,” said Amanda Schutte, Radiology Director at DCMH. “By making it possible to schedule next year’s mammogram before leaving this year’s appointment, we’re helping patients build healthy habits that can make a meaningful difference. Early detection saves lives, and anything we can do to make screening easier is worth it.”
The enhancement was made in response to patient feedback and reflects DCMH’s continued commitment to removing barriers to preventive care.
“One of the things we hear most often is, ‘I’m so glad I could schedule this as soon as I thought about it,’” said Jessica Hunter, Lead Mammography Technologist at DCMH. “Patients tell us they appreciate being able to book their appointments on their own schedule without having to remember to make a phone call during office hours.”
Annual mammograms remain one of the most effective tools for detecting breast cancer early, often before symptoms appear, when treatment is most effective. When breast cancer is found at an early, localized stage, the five-year relative survival rate is about 99%, making regular screening one of the most important steps women can take for their health.
Patients who meet screening guidelines can self-schedule their mammogram anytime by visiting the DCMH Patient Portal here or by calling Radiology Scheduling at 812-663-1157 if they have questions or need assistance.
