What regulates mammography services in the United States?

Mammography services in the United States are regulated by the Mammography Quality Standards Act (MQSA). This federal law was enacted to ensure that all mammography facilities meet specific quality standards in their operations and equipment, thereby enhancing the safety and effectiveness of breast cancer screenings. The MQSA mandates that facilities comply with consistent standards for personnel qualifications, quality assurance, and patient education, among other requirements.

This regulatory framework is crucial because it helps maintain high-quality mammography services across the country and assures patients that they are receiving care that adheres to established national standards. Adopting these standards ultimately aims to improve the detection of breast cancer and reduce the likelihood of missed diagnoses.