Carole Pump Women's Center - Dignity Health - Northridge Hospital Medical Center

Our center offers a wide range of services focused on breast health. We offer advanced screening and diagnostic imaging technology to help support timely diagnosis. Our breast screening and diagnostic imaging services include:

• Breast MRI with biopsy capabilities
• Breast ultrasound
• Digital mammography, including 3D imaging
• Minimally invasive biopsy procedures
• Stereotactic and ultrasound-guided needle biopsy

You can often schedule a routine screening mammogram without a doctor’s referral. Many insurance plans allow women over 40 to schedule these routine checks directly.

However, if you have symptoms or specific concerns, a doctor's order is typically required for a diagnostic mammogram, breast ultrasound or breast MRI.

You can schedule your mammogram screening by calling (818) 647-9665.

A standard mammogram takes two X-ray images of each breast. A 3D mammogram, also known as digital breast tomosynthesis, takes multiple images from different angles, creating a 3D picture of the breast tissue. This may allow doctors to see areas of dense breast tissue in more detail and can help identify some findings that may be harder to see with a standard mammogram.

3D mammography is offered at Northridge Hospital Medical Center. Learn about the advantages of 3D screening and what to do if you don't have health insurance.

Watch video to learn more

Our team will ask about your symptoms or medical history and will guide you through each step to help you feel comfortable.

For a mammogram, a technologist will position your breast in the mammography unit, and your breast will be gently compressed to get clear images. You may feel some brief discomfort, but it typically lasts only a few seconds. 

Most imaging exams take about 15 to 45 minutes, depending on the test. The exams are generally safe, use the lowest necessary radiation and are usually painless. You may need to lie still or change into a gown

To ensure a smooth visit, please bring a photo ID, insurance card, payment method and a doctor’s order or referral for your imaging appointment. It’s also helpful to bring a list of medications you are taking and any past mammogram films or reports.

You will meet with a board-certified radiologist who specializes in reading breast imaging and a mammography technologist who performs your exams. Your care team may also include a patient navigator who can help answer questions, share resources and connect you with other resources.

You can typically view your imaging report through your patient portal. We recommend discussing it with your health care provider, who can explain what your results mean for your health.

Many mammograms and imaging exams are covered by insurance, but coverage can vary by plan and test. We recommend checking with your insurance provider for specific coverage details before your appointment.