How to Schedule a Mammogram at Queen's Medical Center

Call Queen's Medical Center's main line or radiology department to schedule

Queen's Medical Center operates several locations across Hawaii, and the fastest way to book a mammogram is to call the facility closest to you directly. The main hospital line can transfer you to radiology scheduling, or you can ask for the radiology department number when you call. Have your insurance information and a list of any recent imaging or breast concerns ready before you dial.

If you're a current Queen's patient, your primary care doctor's office may also be able to schedule the appointment for you and send the order to radiology ahead of time. This can speed up the check-in process on the day of your exam. If you don't have a primary care doctor at Queen's, calling radiology directly is the most direct route.

Key Takeaways

• Queen's Medical Center radiology departments schedule mammograms by phone; call the location nearest you or ask the main hospital line for the radiology scheduling number.
• Have your insurance card, photo ID, and any prior imaging records available when you call to schedule.
• Mammograms are typically scheduled on weekdays; some locations offer early morning or late afternoon slots to fit different schedules.
• You will be asked about breast symptoms, recent imaging, and whether you have breast implants, as these affect how the technologist positions you during the exam.
• Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early to complete intake paperwork and confirm your insurance information.

What information you'll need to provide when you call

When you reach the scheduling line, have your insurance card in front of you. The scheduler will ask for your member ID, group number, and date of birth to verify coverage. If you don't have insurance or are paying out of pocket, ask about the facility's cash price or payment plans during the call.

You'll also be asked whether this is a routine screening mammogram or a diagnostic mammogram (ordered because of a symptom or abnormal finding). The type of exam affects how long it takes and which radiologist reviews your images. If your doctor ordered the exam, have that order or referral number ready, though the scheduler can often look it up by your name and date of birth.

Mention any breast implants, recent biopsies, or areas of concern when you call. This helps the technologist prepare and may affect scheduling — some facilities need extra time for implant imaging or may refer you to a specialized center.

Scheduling options and what to expect on the day

Queen's Medical Center typically offers mammogram appointments on weekdays during business hours. Some locations have early morning slots starting around 7 or 8 a.m., and others extend into late afternoon. Ask the scheduler what times are available in the next week or two and choose one that fits your schedule.

Arrive 10 to 15 minutes before your appointment time. Bring your insurance card, photo ID, and any paperwork your doctor gave you with the order. You'll check in at the front desk, complete a brief health history form, and then be called back to the imaging area. The mammogram itself takes about 20 minutes from start to finish, though you may wait a few minutes while the radiologist reviews the initial images to make sure they're clear enough.

Wear a two-piece outfit so you can undress only from the waist up. Avoid wearing deodorant, powder, or lotion on your chest or underarms the day of the exam, as these can show up as artifacts on the images and may require retakes. If you're menstruating or have significant breast tenderness, let the scheduler know — you can sometimes reschedule to a time in your cycle when your breasts are less tender.

Understanding screening versus diagnostic mammograms

A screening mammogram is a routine exam for people without symptoms, usually recommended starting at age 40 or 50 depending on your risk factors and your doctor's guidance. It takes standard images of both breasts and typically takes about 15 minutes. Results are usually ready within a few days.

A diagnostic mammogram is ordered when you have a symptom (like a lump, pain, or nipple discharge) or when a screening mammogram found something that needs a closer look. Diagnostic exams include extra images, different angles, and sometimes ultrasound or other imaging. They take longer — usually 30 to 45 minutes — and the radiologist reviews images while you wait so they can take additional pictures if needed.

When you call to schedule, the scheduler will ask which type you need. If you're unsure, ask your doctor or bring the order with you when you call — the scheduler can read it and confirm.

What happens after your mammogram

For a screening mammogram, the radiologist reviews your images after you leave and sends a report to your doctor within a few business days. Your doctor's office will contact you with results. Most screening mammograms are normal; if something is found, your doctor will discuss next steps, which may include additional imaging, ultrasound, or a biopsy.

For a diagnostic mammogram, the radiologist often reviews images while you're still there and may discuss preliminary findings with you before you leave. Your doctor receives the full report and will follow up with you about any findings and whether additional imaging or procedures are needed.

If you don't hear from your doctor within a week, call their office to ask about your results. Don't assume no news is good news — follow up to confirm you received your report.

If you need to reschedule or cancel

If you need to change your appointment, call the radiology department as soon as possible. Most facilities ask for at least 24 hours' notice to reschedule without penalty. If you cancel and need to rebook, you may have to wait several weeks depending on how busy the schedule is, so try to keep your original appointment if you can.

If you're running late on the day of your appointment, call ahead to let them know. Many facilities will still see you if you arrive within 15 to 30 minutes of your scheduled time, but arriving very late may result in cancellation and rescheduling.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a doctor's order to schedule a mammogram at Queen's?

For a screening mammogram, some facilities let you self-refer, while others require an order from your doctor. Call the radiology department and ask — they'll tell you whether you need an order or can schedule directly. If you need one, your primary care doctor can send it to Queen's while you're on the phone.

How much does a mammogram cost at Queen's Medical Center?

Cost varies based on your insurance plan and whether the exam is screening or diagnostic. Ask the scheduler for an estimate when you call. If you're uninsured, ask about the facility's cash price or whether they offer payment plans or financial hardship programs.

Can I bring someone with me to my mammogram appointment?

Yes, you can bring a support person to wait in the waiting room. However, they cannot go back to the imaging area during the exam itself. Let the scheduler know if you'll have someone with you so they can plan waiting room space.

What if I have breast implants?

Tell the scheduler when you call. Implants require special imaging techniques and may take longer. Some facilities have technologists trained specifically in implant imaging, and you may be referred to a specific location or given extra time during your appointment.

When will I get my mammogram results?

For screening mammograms, results typically come back within three to five business days, and your doctor's office will contact you. For diagnostic mammograms, the radiologist often reviews images while you're there and may discuss findings before you leave. Always follow up with your doctor if you haven't heard results within a week.