Mobile screening units

Dorset is very fortunate to have two static Breast Screening units in Poole. Screening is performed on mobile units which travel around the county to different sites.In Dorset we have approximately 20 sites throughout the county, covering an area from Lyme Regis in the west, to Bournemouth in the east and north as far as Gillingham. As each doctor's practice is screened, the mobile unit will be situated nearby, so that ladies will not have far to travel.

Female radiographers from the static unit work on mobiles units in rotation. All mobile units have fairly steep steps to go into them. If these would be a problem for you, it is advisable to ring the static unit and make an appointment there, where the entrance is level.

Generally the whole process should not take more than 20 minutes, most of this time being spent filling in paperwork. You will be given information as to the location of the mobile unit to which you have been invited.

Below is a list of all the mobile units:

Second stage breast screening

How long will the appointment take?

This is variable but we suggest you plan to be here for between half an hour and four hours.

What will happen at this appointment?

Most women will require further x-rays. Some women will require a clinical examination and ultrasound. In some cases a needle biopsy will be taken. This will be explained in detail if this is applicable to you. Our staff are here to answer your questions, reassure and support you. We have a breast care nurse available and you can speak to her before, during or after your appointment.  

When will I get my results?

We are able to give most women their result the same day. If you have a needle biopsy you will be asked to return for your results – usually within 10 days.

What if it is bad news?

Our staff are here to answer your questions, reassure and support you. We have a breast care nurse available and you can speak to her before, during or after your appointment.

Can I bring a partner or friend with me?

Yes, we encourage you to have support. However, your partner or friend will not be able to accompany you in the room for some of your tests due to health and safety reasons.

Can I drive home afterwards?

Yes, if you have a needle biopsy we only use local anaesthetic so you will be able to drive home. If you are concerned about driving due to anxiety, we would suggest you use public transport or have a friend or partner drive you home.

Can I go back to work afterwards?

Most women can safely go back to work after their appointment but please allow up to four hours for your appointment. If you have a needle biopsy we would suggest you restrain from strenuous activity for 24 hours.

I have further questions about my second stage of screening/assessment appointment – who should I call?

You are welcome to call us on 01202 665511, option two between 9am and 4.30pm (Mon-Thurs) and 9am-4pm (Fri) and we will endeavour to answer your questions.

Being breast aware

The breast awareness five-point code

1. Know what is normal for you
2. Know what changes to look and feel for
3. Look and feel
4. Report any changes to your GP without delay
5. Attend for routine breast screening if you are aged 47 or over

I have a breast symptom, what should I do?

Please see your GP. It is important that a woman with a breast symptom does not wait to attend a routine screening mammogram.

If your GP sends you to Poole Hospital, you may be invited to the Ladybird Clinic for imaging. This may be a mammogram, ultrasound or MRI. Every effort is made to complete all necessary imaging and tests during your first visit and  to give you the results of the imaging at this time. MRI appointments are usually within two to six weeks.

Important information

I have had mammograms abroad - should I bring the films with me?

Yes, give them to the staff when you have your mammogram and indicate if you would like them returned. Comparing your new mammograms with previous mammograms can be extremely important.

I have had mammograms at another hospital or screening unit – should I tell someone?

Yes, inform the staff when you have your mammogram. We can obtain mammograms taken in this country but cannot obtain them from abroad.

I have recently had mammograms at another hospital or screening unit – should I tell someone?

If you have had a mammogram within the last 6 months, please call 01202 665522, option two to discuss this.

I don’t want to come for screening – what should I do?

Please call between 9am and 4.30pm on 01202 665511, select option two or email us on This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to discuss this.

I have implants – should I still come for screening?

Yes, please call 01202 665511, option two and inform the office. As extra images will need to be taken, we need to allocate a longer appointment. Occasionally, we may not be able to perform your mammogram if extra time has not been allocated. You will be given a leaflet for your information and asked to sign a form indicating you have read and understood the leaflet prior to having your mammogram.

I cannot climb stairs/ I have a significant learning disability – should I still attend the mobile vans?

No. Our mobile vans are not suitable for women who cannot climb stairs. Our vans have limited space for changing and are unsuitable for patients unable to dress or undress themselves without help. At our unit we can offer patients with learning disabilities an appointment which is tailored to their individual needs.

Please call 01202 665511, select option two between 9am and 4.30pm to discuss your individual requirements. Leaflets are also available at our unit for patients with learning disabilities.

I am over 50 and in the process of gender reassignment. Should I attend breast screening?

Individuals who are undergoing gender reassignment will be invited for breast screening as long as they are registered with a GP as a woman.

However, individuals who are undergoing male to female gender reassignment may be screened as a self-referral at the request of their GP.

If you have any symptoms you should contact your GP in the usual way. 

For more details use the following link: www.cancerscreening.nhs.uk/breastscreen/faq16.html