Breast examination covered by mandatory health insurance

31.10.2023, 09:10

The State Agency on Mandatory Health Insurance (the Agency) has incorporated a range of instrumental and laboratory examinations into the Benefit Package to facilitate the early detection of mammary gland diseases. These examinations include:

• ultrasound examination (US);
• mammography;
• computed tomography (CT);
• magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Additionally, procedures such as breast biopsy, histological examination of collected samples, and determination of blood tumor markers are covered under mandatory health insurance.

Ultrasonography is a modern, harmless, and painless method for diagnosing mammary gland diseases. It enables the detection of cysts, mastopathy (inflammation of the mammary gland), masses, lymph node conditions, and malignant tumors. For early detection of potential pathologies, women over the age of 35 are advised to undergo an ultrasound examination of the mammary gland at least once a year.

Indications for breast ultrasound and mammography include:
• palpated mass, calcification in the mammary gland;
• secretions from the mammary gland in the absence of pregnancy and lactation;
• enlargement of axillary lymph nodes, sensitivity, etc.

For consultation, a family doctor or a qualified doctor (mammologist) can be contacted.

CT and MRI examinations of the mammary gland are primarily performed as supplementary tests when ultrasonography results are inconclusive. These advanced imaging techniques help promptly and accurately detect tumors, determine their nature, assess their spread to surrounding tissues, and identify subtle changes in the mammary gland at an early stage.

For inquiries about medical services and issues covered under mandatory health insurance, citizens can contact the Agency's 1542 Call Center, where calls from all local mobile operators are free of charge. Alternatively, they can use the "Call Order" function on the lower right corner of the Agency’s official website (its.gov.az) to request a callback from a representative.

To access medical services under mandatory health insurance, citizens may visit any state medical facility supervised by the Administration of Regional Medical Divisions (TABIB) or any of the nine scientific research institutes of the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Azerbaijan. A valid ID card is required for registration.