DMIST - Participating Institutions

click to go back to main page

A study of the American College of Radiology
Imaging Network (ACRIN)

Digital Mammographic Imaging Screening Trial
(DMIST)

University of North Carolina
Department of Radiology at Chapel Hill

Are you eligible to participate in DMIST?

To be eligible to participate in this study, you must meet the following criteria:

NOT

NOT

NOT

NOT

WILL

NOT

There is NO age requirement.

If you have a history of breast cancer treated with mastectomy, you ARE eligible.

Some Frequently Asked Questions about DMIST�

1. How much radiation will I receive?

You will be receiving two mammograms, so you will receive two doses of radiation, however the radiation exposure is very minimal.

2. Will I have two mammograms, using the film screen and digital machine, for the next two to three years?

NO, you will only have a digital mammogram done once?

3. Why will the digital mammogram only be done once?

Digital mammograms are not considered to be a standard part of treatment. This study is being done to determine if the digital machines work as well or possibly better than the traditional film screen mammograms, so that there may be evidence that digital mammograms should become a standard part of treatment. Also, you are receiving two doses of radiation when you have two mammograms done, so by limiting the number of digital mammograms you receive through this study, your exposure to radiation is minimized.

4. Will both of my mammograms be read?

Yes, both of your mammograms will be independently read by a UNC Hospital staff radiologist, and you will be notified of the results regardless if it is positive or negative.

5. Will my insurance pay for the mammogram?

You should check with your insurance company.

6. If I pay for the mammogram on my own, how much will it cost?

The cost for a screening mammogram at UNC is $119.00. This price covers the cost of the exam ($84.00) and the cost of the radiologist reading ($35.00).

7. I just had my mammogram done last month - am I still eligible to participate in the study?

Yes, you are still able to enroll in the study. We will be enrolling patients in the study until early 2003.

8. What is my time commitment in this study?

You are only required to come to UNC Hospital for your annual mammogram once, at which time you will have a film screen mammogram and a digital mammogram. Your mammogram appointment should last at least 1-1.5 hours. Once you have had your digital and film screen mammograms done, your direct participation in the study has ended, though we do ask for your permission to have access to your annual mammograms for the next 1-2 years. Also, a few of you may be contacted a few months later to answer some additional questions.

Interested in participating in the Digital Mammographic Imaging Screening Trial (DMIST) at UNC at Chapel Hill?

First, you need to be a registered patient of UNC hospitals.

Call (919) 966-2555 so you can register as a patient and receive a medical record number. Next, you need to schedule your annual screening mammogram appointment.

When you call to schedule your appointment, be sure to have the following information available:

You will receive notification of your appointment time and date in the mail. Also, approximately 2-3 weeks prior to your appointment, you will receive information concerning your participation in the study in the mail.

If you have any questions or concerns, please call Bridget or Stephanie at (919) 966-2881.

We look forward to seeing you at your appointment!

Home | Entrance Requirements | Study Design | Study Site Locations | FAQ | Related Links