Piedmont Cartersville expands breast cancer screening, comprehensive care

Cartersville, Ga. (October 8, 2026) — During Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Piedmont Cartersville is encouraging women to prioritize their breast health by making screening more accessible and connecting patients with comprehensive breast care close to home.

From screening and advanced breast imaging to high-risk evaluation, breast surgery, oncology services and nurse navigation, Piedmont Cartersville offers patients access to care throughout their breast health journey.

The message this October is simple: Early detection matters and taking the first step can start with scheduling a mammogram.

Making mammograms more accessible

Throughout October 2026, Piedmont Cartersville is helping reduce financial barriers to breast cancer screening by offering free mammograms for uninsured individuals.

Free screenings are available at:

Outpatient Women’s Imaging Center
100 Market Place Blvd., Suite 107
Cartersville, GA 30121

To schedule an appointment for a free screening, call 470.490.1952.

Piedmont Cartersville is also offering $99 mammogram screenings throughout October, providing another affordable option for community members. To schedule a discounted screening, call 855.828.5136.

For patients who might otherwise delay a mammogram because of cost or lack of insurance, these programs provide an opportunity to take an important step in protecting their health.

“We believe access to quality care should never be out of reach,” said Lori Rakes, CEO of Piedmont Cartersville. “Breast Cancer Awareness Month gives us an opportunity not only to remind women about the importance of screening, but also to help provide access to the care they need.”

Advanced breast imaging close to home

Screening is an important part of breast health, but Piedmont Cartersville’s services extend beyond routine mammography.

Piedmont offers both 2D and 3D mammography, including digital breast tomosynthesis, as well as diagnostic mammography for patients experiencing symptoms or those who need additional evaluation following a screening mammogram.

Patients are also supported by physicians, imaging technologists and breast cancer nurse navigators who can help guide them through diagnosis and treatment.

“Mammograms remain one of our most important tools for detecting breast cancer in its earliest, most treatable stages,” said Shannon Kahn, MD, Medical Director of Radiation Oncology at Piedmont Cartersville. “Our goal is to make these screenings accessible and comfortable for women throughout our community.”

Specialized care for women at higher risk

For some women, routine screening is only one part of managing their breast health.

Piedmont Cartersville’s High-Risk Breast Cancer Clinic provides personalized monitoring, genetic risk assessment and preventive care for patients with a family history of breast cancer or other significant risk factors. The program is led by breast surgical oncologist Cathy Graham, MD.

“Our goal is to provide comprehensive care tailored to the unique needs of high-risk patients,” Dr. Graham said. “By offering advanced screening and preventive measures, we hope to make a significant impact on breast cancer outcomes in our community.”

The clinic provides another pathway for patients whose individual risk may require more personalized evaluation, surveillance or preventive care.

From detection to treatment

If a screening or diagnostic exam identifies an abnormality, patients can be connected with breast surgical oncology and, when appropriate, other cancer specialists for additional care.

Breast cancer nurse navigators help patients through a process that can include multiple appointments, tests and treatments. Together, screening, diagnostic imaging, high-risk evaluation, breast surgery, oncology and nurse navigation create a more coordinated approach to breast cancer care.

For patients in Bartow County and surrounding communities, the goal is to provide access to the specialists and services they need throughout their cancer journey while allowing more of that care to take place close to home.

A community focus on breast health

Throughout October, Piedmont Cartersville team members are helping raise awareness through Wear Pink Wednesdays, keeping breast health and the importance of screening top of mind.

The hospital’s community outreach also includes the Breast Cancer Boo Run 5k and Wellness Walk (After Run) on Oct. 31 at Hamilton Crossing Park in Cartersville. Participants are encouraged to wear their favorite Halloween attire and race, run or walk alongside breast cancer survivors, supporters and community members. The event provides an opportunity to raise awareness and show support for those impacted by breast cancer.

Community members can learn more and sign up for the Breast Cancer Boo Run 5k and Wellness Walk online.

These community initiatives complement Piedmont Cartersville’s ongoing efforts to improve access to preventive care and reduce barriers that may prevent patients from receiving recommended cancer screenings. For uninsured patients who are diagnosed with cancer, Piedmont Cartersville also works to connect individuals with available financial assistance and other resources.

Schedule a mammogram

Women who are due for a mammogram are encouraged to make breast health a priority rather than waiting until they experience symptoms. To schedule a mammogram at Piedmont Cartersville, call 855.828.5136.

“Breast Cancer Awareness Month is about awareness, but ultimately we want that awareness to lead to action,” Rakes said. “Whether that's scheduling a mammogram, talking with a physician about your risk or encouraging someone you love to get screened, those conversations can make a difference.”