MAXIMIZING THE REFERRAL OF OLDER WOMEN FOR SCREENING MAMMOGRAPHY

The primary care physician is in a crucial position to facilitate mamm ography referral of women older than 50 years. Physician underestimati on of the importance of the physician role or overestimation of patien t resistance can result in lost opportunities for referral. Research i s summarized on the impact of physician encouragement on use of mammog raphy and on sources of reluctance to get mammography as reported by p atients. Common patients' concerns are discussed. Mammography referral can usually be accomplished successfully by raising the issue and bri efly addressing patients' concerns in regard to breast cancer and scre ening mammography.