Coordinated Diagnostic Evaluation Program

At the Carol Franc Buck Breast Care Center, we understand that the wait to find out what an abnormal mammogram means is very stressful for many patients. That is why we have created a specialized program dedicated to the diagnosis and evaluation of women and men who have had suspicious radiological findings. The goals of this service--the Coordinated Diagnostic Evaluation Program--are to coordinate and shorten the diagnostic process, tailor recommendations to patient preference and health status, all while providing the highest caliber of diagnostic accuracy.

Our team consists of surgeons, pathologists, radiologists and nurse practitioners specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of breast problems, . The Coordinated Diagnostic Evaluation Program is organized by a new patient coordinator and triage nurse who help patients obtain any mammogram films done outside of UCSF and arrange for the necessary imaging or procedures.

A patient who has had an abnormal mammogram may get more breast imaging done the morning of her appointment. Also that morning, the patient's case is discussed at a conference between the surgeon and radiologist. The diagnostic team reviews the patient's films and, if the image on the mammogram looks suspicious, may recommend that the patient have a biopsy that afternoon. The surgeon then sees the patient, performs a clinical breast exam, and discusses her follow-up recommendations. The patient and physician work together to determine what is best for the individual. 

If you are interested in scheduling an appointment with the Coordinated Diagnostic Evaluation Program please call (415) 353-7070.