Setting Up an Abbreviated Breast MRI Program: Our Two-year Implementation Experience

Mammography is the long-standing screening tool for detecting breast cancer. Breast MRI is the most sensitive screening modality; however, it has been reserved for patients who are at an increased risk of developing breast cancer. Abbreviated breast MRI (AB-MRI) overcomes the limitations of cost and scanner time when considering screening patients at average or slightly elevated risk. This paper discusses the practical considerations for implementing an AB-MRI program on many levels, after our two-year experience. One of the first steps in introducing an AB-MRI program, since there is no standardized protocol, is determining and implementing a protocol. Since there is no Current Procedural Terminology code for an AB-MRI, a self-pay charge should be established. Adjusting MRI scheduling templates to accommodate the 10-minute AB-MRI exam is helpful. Communication with the breast team and the education of referring physicians is a key step to ensure awareness of a new screening option. As the AB-MRI program is incorporated into a practice, auditing of routine screening outcomes several months after commencement is invaluable to the continued success of the program.