Your breast screen appointment
Getting prepared
How do I book a breast screen?
Book online or call us on 13 20 50. Find out more about booking your breast screen here.
How do I change or cancel my breast screen?
You can change or cancel your appointment by calling 13 20 50.
How long does a breast screen take?
A breast screen appointment usually takes around 15 minutes. If you haven’t completed your paperwork before your breast screen, we ask that you arrive early to do this at the clinic.
Will I have to wait long for my breast screen?
No, if you arrive on time for your appointment, you should not have to wait long. We work to keep to the appointment schedule. If you arrive early or late, you may need to wait.
Why can’t I just check my breasts myself?
Breast screens can detect cancers the size of a grain of rice, long before you or your doctor can see or feel any changes. As well as having a regular breast screen, you should get to know the normal look and feel of your breasts, so you can detect any changes. If you notice any breast changes or symptoms, see your doctor straight away.
Why can’t my doctor just check my breasts?
Breast screens can detect cancers the size of a grain of rice, long before you or your doctor can see or feel any changes. As well as having a regular breast screen, you should get to know the normal look and feel of your breasts, so you can detect any changes. If you notice any breast changes or symptoms, see your doctor straight away.
Where can I have a breast screen?
You can have a free breast screen at one of more than 8 fixed clinics in metropolitan Adelaide or check when our mobile screening units will be near you. Find your closest clinic location here or call us on 13 20 50.
How much does a breast screen cost?
All breast screens with BreastScreen SA are free.
Do I need a referral from my doctor?
No, you do not need a doctor's referral to visit BreastScreen SA. You can book online or call 13 20 50.
What happens at my breast screen?
We have a page on preparing for your breast screen appointment, and what will happen at your breast screen here.
Can I wear a gown when I have my breast screen?
Rather than use a disposable gown, we encourage women to wrap their shirt or cardigan around their shoulders during their breast screen appointment. However, there is no compromise for your comfort, so if you would prefer a gown, please ask us for one.
What if I miss my breast screen appointment?
If you are running late, or can’t make your breast screen appointment, please contact us ahead of time to reschedule. If you forgot to attend your appointment, please don’t hesitate to contact us to book you in again.
How long will my breast screen results take?
Your results are usually posted to you and your nominated doctor within 14 days of your appointment. If you haven’t received your breast screen results within 28 days, call us on 13 20 50.
What happens if I need further tests?
Around 5% of women screened will be asked to come back to BreastScreen SA for further tests. This does not mean that you have breast cancer, but sometimes more tests are needed to make sure. If that’s you, we will invite you back to BreastScreen SA’s assessment clinic. This will be as soon as possible after your breast screen. Like your breast screen, this assessment is free.
Do I have to pay for further tests?
No. If we ask you to come back for further tests, you do not have to pay for those tests. They will all be free.
When will I get the results of my assessment?
In most cases, we can give you your assessment results on the day of your appointment. We will also post your results to you and send them to your doctor. If you have a biopsy, you will be recalled to our Assessment Clinic at a later date to receive your results.
What happens if I have breast cancer?
If you’re diagnosed with breast cancer, our staff will explain the next steps, and where to get the information and support you need. We can also let your doctor know.