In a groundbreaking move to reduce the emotional toll and diagnostic delays associated with breast cancer detection, the University of Chicago Medicine has introduced BIOPSY NOW, a patient-centered initiative offering same-day breast and lymph node biopsies for individuals with highly suspicious imaging findings.
Traditionally, patients wait up to three weeks for a biopsy following abnormal mammogram or ultrasound results. BIOPSY NOW dramatically shortens this timeline, enabling patients to complete all necessary imaging and biopsy procedures in a single visit. While pathology results still require a few days, the streamlined process allows for faster diagnosis and earlier treatment planning.
“What was taking 21 days could be achieved in less than one week,” said Dr. Kirti Kulkarni, radiologist and program lead. “It’s been a game-changer.”
Launched on September 15, BIOPSY NOW also facilitates immediate scheduling with a breast cancer surgeon, often on the same day, giving patients clarity and comfort from the outset.
“You can know who your care team will be on day one,” said surgical oncologist Dr. Cristina O’Donoghue. “Having this all done on the same day gives patients peace of mind.”
A Streamlined Workflow for Providers
The initiative not only benefits patients but also enhances efficiency for healthcare providers. BIOPSY NOW introduces a reflexive work order system, allowing OB/GYNs and primary care physicians to initiate further testing directly. Radiologists can proceed with additional diagnostics without waiting for external orders, reducing bottlenecks in care delivery.
To support the increased demand and maintain quality care, UChicago Medicine restructured staff schedules and added a dedicated breast cancer nurse navigator. This ensures biopsies can be performed promptly and patients are guided through each step of the process.
Collaborative Effort Behind the Innovation
BIOPSY NOW was developed through a multidisciplinary collaboration led by Dr. Kulkarni, with support from Dr. O’Donoghue, Dr. Shari Snow (Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Surgery), and Dr. Maryam Minhaj Siddiqui (OB/GYN). The breast imaging team includes Drs. Gregory Henkle, Hiroyuki Abe, Angela Whittington, Emily Sellers, Derek Franco, and Aiyah Jandali, along with fellows Dr. Hailey Kryzton and Dr. Sara Iqbal.
“There’s a lot of stress and anxiety in a patient who knows there’s something growing in their breast,” said Dr. Kulkarni. “BIOPSY NOW improves patient care immensely.”
UChicago Medicine is currently the only hospital system in the Chicago area offering this accelerated diagnostic pathway, setting a new standard for compassionate, efficient breast cancer care.
