Atrium Health Navicent unveiled a rendering today for a new mobile mammography unit set to begin providing care in 2024.

Funded by a congressional spending allocation, the vehicle will allow Atrium Health Navicent to bridge gaps in access to lifesaving screening services in Macon and surrounding rural communities. Instead of patients having to travel to a screening facility, the mobile mammography unit will bring screenings to neighborhoods, workplaces, churches and other convenient locations.

“This mobile screening unit will allow us to reach more women, detecting more cancers early when treatment options are more plentiful,” said Atrium Health Navicent President Delvecchio Finley. “Thanks to U.S. Sen. Rev. Raphael Warnock for his support in helping Atrium Health Navicent expand access to these lifesaving screening services.”

For many women, mammograms are the best way to find breast cancer early, when it is easier to treat. Regular mammograms can lower the risk of dying from breast cancer, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The ACS recommends that women should begin annual mammography screenings at the age of 40.

Typically, mobile mammogram results are anticipated to be returned within about two business days. If additional screening is needed, patients will be scheduled promptly for a follow-up appointment.

The American Cancer Society (ACS) estimates that in 2023, about 297,790 new cases of invasive breast cancer will be diagnosed in women. In Georgia, it is estimated that there will be about 9,440 new cases of breast cancer diagnosed in 2023, resulting in about 1,400 deaths.

The 35-foot mammogram coach is expected to begin offering care in 2024. Businesses and organizations interested in scheduling a visit are asked to call 478-633-2003.