Breast Health Services
Women-friendly healthcare providers
Whether you need a routine mammogram screening or have concerns about breast changes, our caring and knowledgeable staff will guide you down the path to a healthier you.
Riverwood's family physicians and nurse practitioners have experience treating breast cancer and breast health concerns. Women who are diagnosed with breast cancer or abnormal breast screening test results have access to a full range of highly trained team of healthcare professionals. From diagnostic testing and biopsy through surgery and treatment, a caring staff takes your health personally—each step of the way.
Rehabilitation care for patients recovering from breast surgery may include lymphedema therapy. Our specially trained physical therapist treats lymphedema symptoms such as arm swelling and skin tightness and helps you on your road to recovery.
One-on-one support for breast cancer patients
In 2008, Riverwood launched a Nurse Navigator program for Breast Health with a designated nurse to help patients navigate the medical system, explore treatment options and face any issues that arise.
Amy Renner, RN, is the Breast Health Care Coordinator at Riverwood. Her experience working in oncology includes nine years as an outpatient chemotherapy nurse. She offers vital information and support on medical, emotional, educational and financial matters. View a detailed list of services.
For anyone facing breast cancer, knowing what resources and services are available and how to access and use them can make a huge difference. Amy helps make the journey for breast cancer patients easier. Contact her at (218) 429-3975 or arenner@sisunet.org
Same-day mammograms available
We know women with busy schedules need to use their time for health checkups efficiently. That's why we offer same-day mammograms to women who come in for annual health exams at our Garrison and McGregor clinics.
To schedule an annual health exam at any of our three clinic locations, call toll-free at (888) 270-1882. View more information on Riverwood clinics.
Award-winning breast health care
In 2009, the Minnesota Department of Health recognized Riverwood's Breast Health Team, which included members of the Susan G. Komen for the Cure Brainerd Lakes Affiliate, with its annual Rural Health Team award. This statewide award recognizes outstanding contributions to rural health—in this case breast health initiatives that included the launch of our Nurse Navigator program and innovative community education programs on early detection of breast cancer. View more information on the award.
Breast Cancer Success Stories
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"When I discovered a lump in my right breast, I called Riverwood's Aitkin Clinic for an exam and got in within two hours. I was referred for a mammogram, which did not reveal the cancerous growth, but an ultrasound did. Then a biopsy confirmed a diagnosis of invasive ductal carcinoma. Within days of learning I had breast cancer, I had to decide whether to have a lumpectomy, a mastectomy or a double mastectomy. Thank goodness for the support from Riverwood's nurse navigator for breast cancer, Amy Renner, who met with me right after my ultrasound and accompanied me to all my medical appointments. The care and compassion I've experienced from the Riverwood staff is what I would wish for anyone with breast cancer." - Sue Fox, Aitkin |
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"Riverwood's mammography and radiology department staff did a superb job of identifying a small growth on my annual mammogram. A biopsy confirmed ductal carcinoma insitu, at an early stage where the cancer has not spread. Amy Renner, breast cancer nurse navigator, gave me information materials on breast cancer and set up all my related medical appointments. She sat with my husband and I for the surgery consultation, was with me during surgery prep and supported me by phone and e-mail for the days following surgery. She has continued to support me as I complete radiation therapy. My road to cure and recovery is due largely to Riverwood's staff. They have treated me with friendly professional and excellent care. Amy Renner's support and the breast cancer nurse navigator program is without a doubt the number one reason that I have been able to accept my breast cancer diagnosis." - Carol Cimbura, Malmo |
Sage Cancer Screening program
Cost shouldn't keep you from scheduling a cancer screening that could save your life. Riverwood has partnered with Sage, a cancer screening program offered through the Minnesota Department of Health to offer free mammograms and related diagnostic services to women who are uninsured or underinsured.
If you're a woman 40 or older and meet the income eligibility guidelines listed here, you may be eligible for free breast and cervical cancer screenings through the Sage Cancer Screening program. Even if you have health insurance, you can still qualify if you have an unmet deductible or co-payment that is an obstacle for you, or if your plan does not cover cancer screenings.
| Household size | Monthly Income (gross)* |
| 1 | $2,256 |
| 2 | $3,035 |
| 3 | $3,815 |
| 4 | $4,594 |
| 5 | $5,373 |
| 6 | $6,152 |
* 2009 income guidelines, which are adjusted annually.
For more information or help enrolling in Sage, call Cathy Richardson at Riverwood at (218) 927-8272. Click here for more information from the Minnesota Department of Health. http://www.mnsage.com/
Sage Patient Testimonials
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"The Sage program was a real lifesaver for me. I went for a free mammogram offered through a special van in Brainerd last October after hearing about it on KKIN Radio. My mammogram revealed an abnormal result and I was urged to come in for more testing. But being retired with no health insurance coverage, I put off going to the doctor until I was advised of the Sage Cancer Screening program. I was diagnosed with breast cancer and had a lumpectomy performed by Dr. LeMieur at Riverwood. I was so relieved that I didn't have to step into a bottomless pit of debt to get my medical care and feel so blessed to have benefited from the Sage program." - Mary Van Der Shaegen, Aitkin |
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"I used the Sage program when I needed tests and minor surgery to investigate some abnormal breast tissue. My family had recently switched to a health plan with a $10,000 annual deductible due to rising monthly premiums for their former plan, which became unaffordable. It was difficult enough to go through the concern of a possible health issue without having to stress over financial matters at the same time. Sage eased the financial burden that this would have caused, and I am very grateful to the program. Thankfully, I learned that I did not have breast cancer. About $10,000 of my medical expenses were all covered by Sage." - Rose Ann Johnson, Swatara |
