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Cancer Screenings
We are committed to offering comprehensive cancer screenings to help identify potential health risks early and provide the best possible outcomes for our patients.
What are Cancer Screenings?
Cancer screenings are medical tests designed to detect cancer or precancerous conditions in their earliest stages, often before symptoms appear. Regular screenings play a crucial role in preventing cancer or identifying it early when it’s most treatable. They are an essential part of proactive healthcare and long-term wellness.
Types of Cancer Screenings
- Breast Cancer
Mammograms to detect abnormalities in breast tissue. - Cervical Cancer
Pap smears and HPV tests to identify precancerous or cancerous cells in the cervix. - Colorectal Cancer
Colonoscopies and stool tests to detect polyps or signs of colorectal cancer. - Prostate Cancer
PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) blood tests and physical exams to assess prostate health. - Lung Cancer
Low-dose CT scans for high-risk individuals, such as long-term smokers. - Skin Cancer
Visual examinations to identify abnormal moles or growths on the skin. - Other Screenings
Tests for ovarian, pancreatic, or other cancers as recommended based on family history or risk factors.
Who Needs Cancer Screenings?
Cancer screenings are recommended for everyone based on age, gender, family history, and individual risk factors. Regular screenings are especially important for individuals who:
- Have a family history of cancer.
- Use tobacco or consume alcohol regularly.
- Are over the age of 40 (varies by type of cancer).
- Have a history of prolonged sun exposure.
Why Choose Optima Medical?
At Optima Medical, we provide comprehensive and patient-centered cancer screening services. Our team:
- Works closely with you to determine which screenings are most appropriate for your age, medical history, and risk factors.
- Ensures you feel comfortable and informed throughout the process.
- Offers state-of-the-art diagnostic tools and personalized follow-up care.
How to Prepare for a Cancer Screening
Preparation for cancer screenings depends on the specific test. Our team will provide detailed instructions to ensure accurate results. For example:
- Mammograms: Avoid wearing deodorant or lotions on the day of the screening.
- Colonoscopy: Follow a specific diet or use prescribed preparations to clear your colon.
- Pap Smears: Schedule the test when you are not menstruating for the most accurate results.
Our team is here to guide you through the process, answer your questions, and ensure you feel supported every step of the way.
Behavioral Health FAQs
Q: What kinds of treatments are available for behavioral health issues at Optima?
A: Treatment for behavioral health issues is varied and tailored to the individual’s specific condition and needs. Your behavioral health care manager will help you build coping skills, increase self-awareness of symptoms, provide psychoeducation, process daily stressors, and provide resources for individual/group therapy. If you chose to explore medication options, our psychiatric providers will perform a comprehensive evaluation to determine what medication will be the best fit for you.
Q: How do I know if I or someone I know needs behavioral health treatment?
A: Recognizing the need for behavioral health treatment often begins with observing changes in behavior, mood, or daily functioning that persist or worsen over time. Symptoms might include excessive sadness or worry, extreme mood changes, confusion, withdrawal from social activities, changes in sleeping or eating habits, or the use of substances to cope with daily challenges. However, a definitive diagnosis should always be made by a qualified healthcare professional
Q: Do you offer in-person care for behavioral health services?
A: At Optima, our behavioral health program operates virtually, making it convenient for you to receive care via telehealth. We do not offer in-person services.
Q: What are your hours of operation?
A: Our department is open Monday- Friday, from 8 am to 5 pm.
Q: I’m having thoughts of hurting myself or someone else. What should I do?
A: If you or someone you know is having thoughts of suicide, self-harm, or hurting someone else, you should seek emergency services immediately. You can call the national suicide crisis prevention line at 988.
Q: What is the difference between a behavioral health care manager and a therapist?
A: A behavioral health care manager is not a licensed professional, they are behavioral health specialists. They can provide brief psychotherapy interventions such as developing healthy coping skills, creating healthy habits, psychoeducation, and processing daily stressors you may have. Their main job role is to collaborate with patients, their primary care provider, and their psychiatric provider to develop comprehensive treatment plans. They also coordinate care between you and your psychiatric provider, making it easy to schedule an appointment, get a refill, etc. A therapist is a licensed counselor that provides direct therapeutic interventions to help you gain skills and understand why you do the things you do. Your care manager can assist with getting you counseling services.
Q: What mental health conditions is Optima unable to treat?
A: Because we operate virtually, it would be unethical to provide services to certain mental health conditions. Some conditions require a higher level of care, which would require in-person services. We are unable to treat patients who are SMI (serious mental illness), those that suffer from a severe psychiatric condition such as schizophrenia, patients who are an imminent risk of harm to themselves or others, substance use disorders, neurological disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease, and certain intellectual disabilities such as autism spectrum disorder. We are also unable to treat minors
Schedule Your Cancer Screenings
Don’t wait—early detection can save lives. Contact Optima Medical today to schedule your cancer screening at one of our convenient Arizona locations. Together, we’ll take proactive steps toward your health and well-being.
