“Making my appointment over the phone was super easy, and then after that, I was given simple instructions to fill out two consents and questionnaires. Parking was a breeze at the back of the building, and walking into the beautiful, feminine space, I was warmly greeted by Ash at the front desk.
The store area is so inviting, with fun products like women’s nutritional options, skincare, snacks, and quality supplements for everyone. Amanda, the Tech/Manager, then escorted me to the QT room, where she offered a cozy robe and clear instructions. I undressed to my comfort level and began with a quick verbal questionnaire while seated on the machine.
Next, Amanda had me lie face down on my stomach, positioning my right breast into the scanning area. The surface is firm but surprisingly comfortable, with only minor pressure on the ribs. She attached a painless adhesive and small magnet to my breast, then gently lowered me into the warm water for the 13-minute scan per side. (Pro Tip: Be prepared to stay as still as possible. The soothing warmth and gentle movement of the scan will help!)
We repeated the process for the left side—Amanda was incredibly pleasant and explained every step. Before I knew it, I was done! I dried off, got dressed, and headed out feeling relaxed. Results are uploaded within a few days, complete with radiologist notes as needed.
I’m so grateful for trustworthy imaging without radiation or discomfort—it felt like a spa day!”
“As a breast cancer researcher, I spend a great deal of time reading studies, evaluating emerging technologies, and listening to the concerns of patients. One issue that comes up repeatedly is anxiety surrounding repeated radiation exposure from traditional mammograms, particularly among women with dense breast tissue. I’ve even raised the importance of patient choice in breast cancer screening at the federal level, advocating for greater awareness of alternative options.
When I learned that Robinhood Integrative Health was offering QT Breast Imaging, I immediately asked to be added to their list. I didn’t just want to read about the technology. I wanted to experience it firsthand.
I made the drive from the Charlotte area to RIH Imaging in Winston-Salem. From the moment I arrived, I felt welcomed. Emory greeted me warmly, and Amanda, the imaging technologist, took the time to patiently explain every step of the process since it was my first scan.
The experience itself was unlike traditional breast imaging. There was no compression, which many women find uncomfortable with mammography. Before the scan, small nipple transmitters were placed, and I was positioned for imaging that required remaining completely still for approximately 13 minutes per breast. One thing I quickly learned is that the equipment elevates you quite high off the ground, so following the technologist’s instructions carefully, and resisting the urge to move or roll is essential for obtaining quality images.
As someone who researches innovations in breast cancer care, I believe it’s important to understand new technologies not only from published literature but also from the patient perspective. Walking through the process myself gave me valuable insight into what others may experience if they choose this type of imaging. My results were sent to my doctor and thankfully did not show any worrisome findings, which is great news!
I wanted to share my experience because many women may not realize that technologies like QT Breast Imaging exist. Screening decisions are deeply personal and should always be made in consultation with a trusted healthcare provider. My goal isn’t to recommend one approach over another but simply to encourage informed conversations and greater awareness of the options that may be available.
As both a researcher and a patient advocate, I believe empowering people with knowledge is one of the most important steps we can take toward improving breast health.”
