Rapid Diagnosis Breast Clinic in Hitchin

Private Patients (those who are paying for their own treatment and people with private medical insurance) can now access the Pinehill Hospital Rapid Diagnosis Breast Clinic. The Clinic has been developed to help ease the anxiety of breast symptoms, such as the discovery of a breast lump. You will see our highly experienced and skilled Consultant Breast Surgeon; Mr Neil Johns.

Quick Appointments

The Rapid Diagnosis Breast Clinic is held on Mondays and Thursdays.

Quality Care

A dedicated team of specialists is on standby in the Breast Clinic to care for your specific needs when you are worried about breast problems.

The professional team includes:

• A Consultant Breast Surgeon
• Mammography Specialist Radiographer (to take mammograms)
• A Consultant Radiologist (to read the result of mammograms and/or ultrasound scans)
• Breast Care Nurse (to offer information, support and counselling)

On the spot tests

A Consultant Breast Surgeon will lead your care.

During your visit the surgeon will examine you and where needed refer you for a Mammogram and/or Breast Ultrasound.

If necessary a fine needle test may be carried out to exclude any abnormalities within a lump that has been discovered.

Rapid Results

In most cases you will return the same day to see your Consultant as the result will be available on the day, but occasionally further tests are needed to give a conclusive result. If this should happen you will be given a date for your follow up appointment prior to leaving the clinic.

It is important to emphasise that more often that not the result will be normal and you will leave the clinic with complete peace of mind.

If however an abnormality is detected you will receive the immediate support of a breast care nurse counsellor and early access to treatment.

Why would you be concerned?

Breast changes to look out for include:

• a change in the size, shape or feel of your breast
• dimpling, puckering or redness of the skin
• redness, a rash or crusting on your nipple or surrounding area
• a change in your nipple, such as in its shape or if it turns inwards to your breast (becomes inverted)
• a discharge from your nipple (unless you’re breast feeding)
• bleeding from your nipple area
• pain in part of your breast or armpit
• swelling, thickening or a lump in your breast or arm pit

These symptoms don’t necessarily mean that you have breast cancer but if you have any of them, see your GP or call to book into our Rapid Diagnosis Breast Clinic on 01462 427221

How do I book?

The clinic is available to anyone with breast symptoms. Please obtain a referral from your GP and then call 01462 427221 to make your appointment.

Costs

The cost of the full breast examination will vary depending on the tests required to obtain a definitive result. The following tests my be clinically advised at the initial appointment. The costs for these are as follows: 

• Mammogram - £305
• Ultrasound of One Breast - £368
• Ultrasound of both Breasts - £615
• Core Biopsy of one Breast including Histology - £1,103
• Fine Needle Aspiration - £1103
• Consultant's Consultation Fee for Initial and Follow up - £300 

Please call 01462 427221 for help with which may be the right option for you.