Patients at high risk for developing breast cancer can now be seen by a team of Vanderbilt Breast Center experts in Cool Springs. The new breast health clinic, located at 324 Cool Springs Blvd., Suite B, Franklin, provides a range of medical services for high-risk individuals.
Women who are defined as average risk have a 12 percent risk of developing breast cancer during their lifetime, but those with a 20 percent or higher chance of developing cancer are considered high risk.
“Patients may be at high risk because of a family history of breast cancer, inherited gene mutations, a previous cancer diagnosis, radiation exposure in childhood, or benign breast disease,” said Ingrid Meszoely, MD, Ingram Associate Professor of Cancer Research and clinical director of the Vanderbilt Breast Center.
Meszoely, who is a distinguished breast surgeon, said the new clinic provides whole breast health services in a convenient location with free parking.
“This is a unique service in Tennessee and we focus on establishing lasting relationships with patients who may need to be followed or treated over a long period of time. We know that patients are looking for experts with extensive knowledge who provide personal services in a compassionate environment,” Meszoely said.
The Cool Springs clinic is run by a team of highly experienced nurse practitioners who typically see the patients every six months. In partnership with the Vanderbilt Hereditary Cancer Clinic, the team also includes a genetic counselor who can guide patients on the potential need for genetic testing to determine their risk profile.
“As advanced practice nurses, we serve as advocates for patients who are at increased risk,” said Mary Egger, APN, WHNP. “We work with them to assess their individual risk factors and formulate a personalized plan of care that is appropriate for them.”
Patients may be referred for screening or diagnostic mammography or more advanced screening, including MRI.
“Patients who receive imaging services in Cool Springs receive the same level of professional oversight as our patients in the Vanderbilt Breast Center at One Hundred Oaks in Nashville,” said John Huff, MD, chief of the Section of Breast Imaging, medical director of Breast Imaging Services and imaging director of the Vanderbilt Breast Clinic.
“The same highly accomplished team of breast health radiology experts examines the screening images for any evidence of disease,” Huff said.
Patients may be referred by their primary care physician or their gynecologist or they may schedule an appointment on their own.
For more details or to schedule an appointment, call the Vanderbilt Breast Center at 615-322-2064.
