Mammography Associate

Knowledge, skills, competencies and qualifications

• Mammography associate practitioners require practical, theoretical and/or technical knowledge and understanding of the occupational area to address problems that are well defined, but complex and non-routine. 
• Mammography associates focus on providing screening services for the English national breast screening programme. There is a single clearly defined examination protocol, and robust quality assurance programme.
• Mammography associates deliver the service to the same standard as a registered radiographer. The ratio of mammography associates and assistant practitioners to registered radiographers is greater in a screening service than in a general imaging department where there is a wider variation in the work.
  Mammography associates work alongside mammography assistant practitioners who have a wider scope of practice. Both levels work under the supervision of registered radiographers, which can include a model of remote supervision in line with national guideline

Key responsibilities

• Operating specialized mammography equipment to produce clear images for diagnostic purposes

• Ensuring comfortable and accurate positioning of the breast for optimal imaging and providing information to patients about breast health.

• Evaluating the technical quality of mammography images and making adjustments to optimize clarity and detail.

• Monitoring and performing quality assurance tests for specialized X-ray equipment.

• Helping patients understand the importance of breast health awareness and explaining procedures in a clear and understandable way.  

View table of responsibilities