The New Ulm Medical Center is consolidating all breast care services into one comprehensive breast center. The center will be staffed by specialized breast health caregivers, technology and support that will allow women to make informed decisions about their breast health care.

“We are consolidating some existing services and adding some services to provide a one-stop location for breast health,” said Corinne Jordan, MD, a general surgeon who specializes in surgery related to breast disease, such as breast cancer.

The center is being modeled after the Piper Breast Center, an award-winning and nationally-recognized breast center located at Abbott Northwestern Hospital in Minneapolis, at Mercy Hospital in Coon Rapids and at United Hospital in St. Paul. Piper Breast Center offers screening, prevention, diagnosis, treatment and survivorship programs for women. Services in New Ulm include:

State-of-the-art 3D mammography for improved cancer detection, which is shown to increase the number of cancers detected and reduce the need for extra imaging

Breast MRI, one of the most sensitive tests for breast cancer, used for characterizing breast tumors and screening women at high risk for breast cancer

Genetic counseling, offered through telehealth with Piper Breast Center genetic counselors

Breast Cancer Risk Assessment Clinic for women who have been determined to be or suspect they may be at higher risk for developing breast cancer

Specialized pathologists for real-time analysis of breast samples

Lymphedema and rehabilitation programs in partnership with Courage Kenny Rehabilitation Institute™ of Allina Health

Integrated therapies, including aromatherapy, acupuncture and guided imagery

On-site plastic surgeons for reconstruction services.

Many of these services are already available at New Ulm Medical Center, including the more advanced 3D mammography and access to Courage Kenny Rehabilitation Institute services. Plastic surgery services and other program features will be in place by the end of summer.

“If cancer is found, the breast center team works with your doctors to develop individualized care plans,” says Jordan. “It has been shown that a comprehensive breast center and a multidisciplinary approach to managing breast cancer has better results for patients.”

But one of the most important features, says Jordan, is that the breast center will allow women to receive all their care close to home. “Our patients will not have to travel to get access to good, quality care,” said Jordan. “They will get what they need right here in New Ulm.”

Patients can self-refer to the New Ulm Medical Center Breast Center or be referred by their primary care doctor. To make an appointment, please call the New Ulm Medical Center appointment line at 507-217-5011 or schedule online at allinahealth.org and click on make an appointment.