What RadNet Mammography Is
RadNet is a network of imaging centers across the United States that performs mammograms and other diagnostic imaging services. It is not a single facility but a collection of centers, many of which are located inside or near hospitals, medical offices, and standalone imaging clinics. RadNet centers use the same mammography equipment and follow the same safety standards as other accredited imaging facilities.
When you schedule a mammogram at a RadNet location, you are scheduling at one of their participating centers in your area. The process — what happens during the exam, how long it takes, what you wear — is the same as a mammogram anywhere else. The main difference is that RadNet coordinates scheduling, billing, and result delivery across multiple locations under one network name.
Key Takeaways
- RadNet is a network of imaging centers, not a single hospital or clinic, so you will schedule at a specific location near you.
- A RadNet mammogram follows the standard mammography procedure: you undress from the waist up, the technician positions your breast on the machine, and two images are taken of each breast.
- You can usually schedule online through RadNet's website or by calling the specific center location, and most centers offer same-week or next-week appointments.
- Your results are typically sent to your doctor within one to three business days, and you may also receive a patient summary in the mail.
- RadNet accepts most major insurance plans, but you should confirm your coverage and any out-of-pocket costs before your appointment.
How to Schedule a RadNet Mammogram
You can schedule a mammogram at a RadNet center by visiting their website and using their online scheduling tool, or by calling the specific location directly. The website lets you enter your zip code to find centers near you, see available appointment times, and book without talking to anyone. If you prefer to call, the center's phone number is listed on the location page.
When you schedule, you will need to provide your name, date of birth, insurance information, and the reason for the exam — whether it is a routine screening or a diagnostic mammogram ordered by your doctor. If your doctor ordered the exam, have that order or referral handy. Most RadNet centers can fit you in within a week, though availability varies by location and season.
Bring your insurance card and a photo ID to your appointment. If you have had mammograms at other facilities, ask whether RadNet can retrieve those images, as comparing current images to past ones helps radiologists spot changes.
What Happens During a RadNet Mammogram
A mammogram at RadNet takes about 15 to 30 minutes from check-in to finish. You will be taken to a private changing room and asked to undress from the waist up and put on a hospital gown that opens in the front. The technician will then position you at the mammography machine.
For each breast, the technician will gently place it on a flat platform and lower a clear plastic paddle to compress it. You will feel pressure but not severe pain — compression is necessary to spread the tissue so the X-ray can see through it clearly. The machine takes two images of each breast: one from top to bottom and one from side to side. You hold still for a few seconds while each image is taken. The whole process is over quickly, and you can get dressed and leave right after.
If you are having a diagnostic mammogram (ordered because of a symptom or abnormal screening result), the radiologist may be in the room and may ask you questions about your breast or request additional images from different angles. This takes longer but follows the same basic steps.
Understanding Your Results and Next Steps
RadNet sends your mammogram results to the doctor who ordered the exam, usually within one to three business days. Your doctor will contact you with the results and any next steps. You may also receive a patient summary letter in the mail that explains what the radiologist found, written in plain language.
Results are typically categorized using the BI-RADS scale (Breast Imaging-Reporting and Data System), which ranges from 0 to 6. A score of 1 or 2 means no abnormality was found. A score of 3 means a probably benign finding that needs follow-up imaging in a few months. A score of 4 or 5 means something suspicious was found and a biopsy or other diagnostic test may be recommended. A score of 0 means the radiologist needs more information and may request additional images.
If you do not hear from your doctor within a week, call their office to ask about your results. Do not assume no news is good news — sometimes results get delayed in the mail or in office systems.
Insurance, Cost, and Payment at RadNet
RadNet accepts most major insurance plans, including Medicare, Medicaid, and commercial plans from Aetna, Blue Cross, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare, and others. Coverage and out-of-pocket costs vary by your specific plan and whether the mammogram is a screening (preventive) or diagnostic exam.
Screening mammograms are usually covered at no cost under the Affordable Care Act if you have health insurance. Diagnostic mammograms may have a copay or coinsurance, depending on your plan. Before your appointment, call your insurance company or check your plan documents to confirm what you will owe.
If you do not have insurance, RadNet centers often offer self-pay rates that are lower than the full charge. Ask about this when you schedule. Some centers also have financial information programs or payment plans for uninsured or underinsured patients.
What to Bring and How to Prepare
Bring your insurance card, photo ID, and any paperwork from your doctor if the mammogram was ordered by them. Wear comfortable, straightforward-to-remove clothing — you will undress from the waist up, so a two-piece outfit is simpler than a dress.
Schedule your mammogram for the week after your period ends if possible, as breast tissue is less tender then. Avoid caffeine for a few days before if you have caffeine-sensitive breast pain. Do not wear deodorant, antiperspirant, powder, or lotion on your chest or underarms on the day of your exam, as these can show up as artifacts on the X-ray images.
If you are pregnant or think you might be, tell the technician before the exam. Mammograms use very low-dose radiation, but your doctor may recommend waiting or using ultrasound instead.
RadNet Locations and How to Find One Near You
RadNet has centers in most U.S. states, though the exact number and locations change as the network expands or contracts. To find a center near you, go to RadNet's website, enter your zip code, and a list of nearby locations will appear with their addresses, phone numbers, and hours.
Each location has its own phone number and scheduling system, so if one center is fully booked, you can try another nearby. Some RadNet centers are inside hospitals, some are in medical office buildings, and some are standalone imaging clinics. The equipment and procedure are the same regardless of location.
If you have trouble finding a RadNet center in your area or if all nearby locations are booked, ask your doctor for a referral to another accredited imaging center. Your insurance will cover mammograms at any accredited facility, not just RadNet.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get results from a RadNet mammogram?
Results are typically sent to your doctor within one to three business days. Your doctor will then contact you. You may also receive a patient summary letter in the mail within a week or two. If you have not heard anything after five business days, call your doctor's office to check on the status.
Can I get my mammogram images on a CD or USB drive?
Yes. RadNet can provide your images on a CD or USB drive if you request it. Ask at the front desk before you leave, or call the center after your exam. There may be a small fee, usually between $10 and $25. You can also ask to have images sent electronically to another doctor or facility.
What if I am claustrophobic or anxious about mammograms?
Tell the technician before the exam starts. They can explain each step as it happens and let you take breaks if needed. The machine is not an enclosed space — you stand in front of it with your arm free. If anxiety is severe, ask your doctor whether you can take a mild sedative before the appointment, though this is rarely necessary.
Is a mammogram painful?
Mammograms cause pressure and brief discomfort but not severe pain for most people. Compression is necessary for clear images. If you have very tender breasts, schedule for the week after your period. Tell the technician if you are in pain during the exam — they can adjust the compression slightly, though this may mean retaking an image.
Do I need a doctor's order to get a mammogram at RadNet?
For a screening mammogram, you usually do not need an order — you can schedule directly. For a diagnostic mammogram (ordered because of symptoms or an abnormal result), you will need an order from your doctor. When you call to schedule, the center will tell you whether they need one for your situation.