The role of the comprehensive breast center

Continuous progress in breast health and breast cancer care has been made over the past few decades. Major advances include the widespread use of screening mammography, resulting in mortality reduction; the evolution of multimodality treatment planning, resulting in more coordinated care; and the use of adjuvant chemotherapy, resulting in prolonged survival. In addition, the emergence of a new consumerism has resulted in more research funding, political activism, and legislative mandates in many states for screening mammography reimbursement and informed consent laws. The development of comprehensive breast centers represents another measure of success in the area of health care delivery, which has traditionally been fragmented. This article will describe the role of the NP in relation to a comprehensive breast center, as well as how the NP can improve the provision of primary breast care, identify quality in potential consultants, and effectively collaborate and communicate with other members of the health care team, including the patient and family.