Mammogram, MRI?or CAT scan?? The uncomfortable question?was the focus?of?a new study released this Friday December 2, 2005 at the annual meeting of the Radiological Society of North America in Chicago.? For the last year in my practice I have been referring patients for MRI scan of the breast when they have complicated breast problems like:
- Strong family history of breast cancer
- Previous personal history of breast cancer in themselves
- Breast lumps that are biopsy negative
- Fear of breast cancer for any reason
- For clarification of questionable mammogram
My practice revolves around caring for women like they were family.? (This is rumored to be the reason family practice was initially developed.)? I have received criticism for that approach because it doesn't show sensitivity to the social impact of screening with a more expensive tool than mammography.? I have determined to provide the best quality care to anyone who entrusts me with their health.? I can not and will not be responsible for the economic impact of the health choices of an entire society.? On the other hand I do accept the responsibility for providing a loving, supportive environment for anyone who wants to unburden society from the costs of promiscuous sexuality, tobacco abuse, alcohol abuse and other stupid destructive behaviors.? ?????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????
The study showed that a CT scan (Computed tomography) may be better for early breast cancer detection than mammography.? There is no question that it is much more comfortable for women, according to Karen Lindfors of the University of California, Davis, School of Medicine and Medical Center.? "In this initial evaluation, breast CAT images were subjectively found to be equivalent to and potentially better than standard mammography for the detection and evaluation of breast cancer," said Lindfors.? I believe that when the results of MRI scanning for breast cancer come in we'll see even better statistics and similar comfort.? Not only that but the radiation exposure is zero! ???????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????
The costs of health care should always be considered and choices for how those dollars are spent should be placed squarely in the hands of the free individual in a free society.? In the drafting of the Constitution of the United States Dr, Benjamin Rush advocated for an amendment that would guarantee people the right to free choice in health care just like the right to free speech.? He unfortunately didn't succeed.? If he did we wouldn't be having this discussion.? When it comes to our health we can't leave the decision-making to?insurance company bean counters or well-intended bureaucrats without direct responsibility for patient care.? I don't really concern myself with legal worries but with people who trust me to find them the best resources for getting and staying healthy.? It simplifies things tremendously.? ????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????
The real question is?"Should we give every person who wants the very best health care the right to pursue it?"? Once we answer that question we can honestly decide "What is Best for the Breast?"? A truly free society does not have health decisions made by governing bodies of any kind.? These decisions rest in the hands of the governed.? I thank God that we still live in that? country.? If I had breasts I would save up my allowance and get an MRI scan every couple of years.? If you ask around you'll find that most women who've studied the topic and have something at stake would probably agree with me.? Make up your own mind and exercise your health freedom!
