We all know the key to saving lives from breast cancer is early detection but if your mammogram is not properly performed, you could be at risk.

The FDA, through state inspectors, evaluates each mammography facility yearly.  The facilities are then scored as follows:

• A Level 1 observation indicates that the inspector found one or more deviations from the Mammography Quality Standards Act (MQSA) that may seriously compromise the quality of mammography services offered by the facility.  Any Level 1 violation must be corrected within 15 days to the satisfaction of the FDA.
• A Level 2 observation indicates that the facility's performance is generally acceptable.  However the inspector did find one or more deviations from the MQSA that may compromise the quality of mammography services offered by the facility.  Any Level 2 violation must be corrected within 30 days to the satisfaction of the FDA.
• A Level 3 observation indicates that the facility's performance is generally acceptable.  However the inspector did find one or more minor deviations from the MQSA.  And Level 3 violation must be corrected within 30 days to the satisfaction of the State.
• A Level 4 observation indicates that the facility's performance is in full compliance with the MQSA.

To see scores for facilities in Oregon, click here (pdf).  To see scores for facilities in southwest Washington, click here (pdf).

Low Cost Mammograms

• Low cost mammograms in Oregon.
• Low cost mammograms in Washington.