High-Risk Breast Clinic: Personalized Care When It Matters Most

If you’re at high risk for breast cancer, waiting isn’t an option. Early detection saves lives. That’s why Owensboro Health has opened a High-Risk Breast Clinic — a place designed just for you, with care that’s personal, proactive and backed by the latest in technology and science.

Led by Tara Allen, APRN, a certified provider through the American Society of Breast Surgeons, the clinic offers tailored screening, advanced risk assessments and surveillance plans built just for you. If you have a family history of breast, ovarian, pancreatic or prostate cancer — or if you’ve had an abnormal breast biopsy, dense breast tissue or a diagnosis like atypical ductal hyperplasia (ADH) — this clinic is for you.

“We knew there were women in our community who were high risk,” says Allen. “They had risk scores from assessments, genetic factors or previous high-risk biopsy results. But they didn’t have a dedicated place for follow-up. We built this clinic so no woman would fall through the cracks.”

Closing the Gap in Breast Cancer Prevention

Owensboro Health has been a certified breast center through the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers since 2010. The High-Risk Breast Clinic is the next step in that long-standing commitment. With oversight from the Breast Program Leadership Committee, including OHSS surgeons Dr. Mullins and Dr. Raque, this clinic offers a critical layer of protection and care.

“We follow the most up-to-date national guidelines,” Allen says. “Because early, high-risk screening allows for early detection and treatment — especially women with a genetic mutation, like the BRCA gene — that tends to develop in younger women."

The clinic evaluates patients using detailed risk assessments, often in combination with genetic testing. From there, Allen works closely with each woman to build a surveillance plan that fits her needs. That may include alternating mammograms and MRIs every six months, clinical breast exams and referrals to specialists in genetics, oncology or gynecology.

A Place for Answers — and Relief

Most patients are referred by their OB-GYN or primary care provider, but self-referrals are also welcome. Allen says many women arrive with the same feeling — anxiety, fear or uncertainty about what comes next. Her message: You’re not alone, and we’re ready to help.

“You’ll be followed closely,” Allen says. “We’ll keep an eye on your imaging, your history, your risk — and you’ll have someone in your corner every step of the way.”

One powerful advantage the clinic offers is clarity. For many women, just understanding their risk brings peace of mind. And for those who are high risk, the team helps them take meaningful steps toward prevention or early diagnosis — when breast cancer is most treatable.

Don’t Wait. Take the Next Step.

Breast cancer is most dangerous when it goes undetected. If you think you might be at risk, talk to your primary care provider or OB-GYN. Or reach out to the High-Risk Breast Clinic directly at 270-688-3744.

“People think breast cancer is always genetic, but that’s only a small percentage,” Allen says. “Still, it’s often more aggressive and appears earlier in life. That’s why screening at 25 is so important. We don’t want to miss anyone.”

No matter your background or risk level, the High-Risk Breast Clinic is here for you. We’re part of this community. We’re caring for your sisters, your mothers, your friends — and maybe for you.

Learn more at OwensboroHealth.org/Allen.