Questions
and Answers
Is thermography safe?
Yes, the infrared camera used is FDA registered and clinical thermography has been used in the United States and Europe for over twenty years. Thermography is a non-invasive, physiologic test which determines thermal patterns in skin temperature without the use of radiation or compression. There is no contact with the body so it can do no harm.
How does it work?
Thermal imaging is an adjunctive diagnostic technique allowing the examiner to visualize and obtain an image of heat being emitted from the skin’s surface. This visual image graphically maps the body temperature and is referred to as a thermogram. Since there is a high degree of thermal symmetry in the normal body, subtle abnormal temperature changes can be easily identified.
Who will take the images?
A specially trained ACCT certified thermographer will take your images. Female technicians will perform all breast scans.
Will I receive a copy of my report?
Yes, you can choose to receive your board certified physician interpretive report and color images within a week as secure, password protected PDF files via email. Or if you prefer, a hard copy of your results can be mailed to your address of record. For HIPPA reasons, we do not forward copies of reports to your physician or practitioner.
Is thermal imaging a replacement for mammography?
No, there is no comparison or competition between mammograms and thermography. They are two different tests providing different results. Thermal imaging shows information relating to vascular activity, inflammation, lymphatic activity, hormonal dysfunction and other functional abnormalities.
Do I need a physician’s referral to have this imaging?
No. Thermography offers you the opportunity to be pro-active in your health decisions.
Will health insurance cover the cost of my thermogram?
Currently, most insurance companies do not cover thermography. You should check with your individual company. We will provide you with an itemized receipt that you can send to your insurance company. However, you may be reimbursed through your FSA (flexible spending account) or HSA (health savings account).
I'm coming in for an appointment. What forms do I need to fill out?
Forms for all screenings can be found on our procedure forms page. Please complete these forms and bring them with you for your appointment.