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GRACE Imaging and Spa: Specialized Breast Imaging and Care in Des Moines, Iowa
Finding quality breast care can be daunting, especially when you are unsure of the expertise you will encounter. At GRACE Imaging and Spa, conveniently located in Clive, Iowa, just off University Avenue behind Cooper’s Hawk, they are redefining breast cancer screening by providing expert care in a serene, spa-like environment. GRACE was founded by fellowship-trained breast radiologists, Dr. Andrea Lamphiear, MD, and Dr. Rachel Preisser, MD, who saw a gap in Iowa for specialized, personalized breast care services—and decided to create it themselves.
We worked with the doctors at GRACE Imaging and Spa to answer the most common questions when it comes to breast cancer awareness in Iowa.

Why GRACE Was Created
As breast radiologists, diagnosing breast cancer and discussing its impact with patients is a central part of GRACE’s work. Receiving a breast cancer diagnosis can be life-altering, filled with questions and uncertainties. At GRACE, their mission is to ease this experience by offering high-level care from fellowship-trained breast radiologists who specialize in breast imaging. They believe that with the right expertise and setting, breast care can be a positive and empowering experience.
Addressing Iowa’s Cancer Crisis
Breast cancer is the most common cancer diagnosis in Iowa, a state facing a rising cancer rate, ranking second in the nation. Screening mammograms are proven to reduce breast cancer mortality, yet 30% of eligible women in Iowa opt-out. By merging breast imaging with spa services, they aim to shift the perspective from “healthcare” to “self-care,” making screenings an experience to look forward to.

GRACE’s Approach to Breast Cancer Risk and Screening
Knowing your breast cancer risk can be critical in early detection and prevention. The American College of Radiology recommends that women at high-risk start breast MRI screenings between ages 25-30 and begin annual mammograms at 30. However, many women are not assessed until age 40, missing valuable early detection opportunities. The doctors at GRACE Imaging and Spa encourage women of all ages, especially those in their 20s and 30s, to get risk assessments. At GRACE, they offer these assessments in a calming, non-clinical environment, empowering younger women with the knowledge to take proactive steps.
When Should You Get a Mammogram?
The current federal law covers mammograms for all women starting at age 40. In Iowa, a state law starting January 1, 2025, will cover additional breast imaging costs for commercial insurance plans, but they hope to see national legislation (the Find It Early Act) expand coverage across all states. If you have concerns or high-risk factors, some insurance plans may cover mammograms earlier.

Expertise You Can Trust
Interpreting mammograms is one of the most complex imaging tasks in radiology, requiring experience to distinguish between normal tissue and early signs of cancer. In the U.S., the qualifications to read mammograms are relatively minimal, with radiologists needing only three months of mammography training. In contrast, GRACE’s radiologists, Dr. Lamphiear and Dr. Preisser, are fellowship-trained and have each read over 100,000 mammograms. They bring 15+ years of experience and a passion for providing the highest quality care to Iowa women.
Meet the Experts Behind GRACE
Dr. Lamphiear and Dr. Preisser, both University of Iowa Medical School graduates, have spent their careers advocating for women’s breast health. Each has worked in a variety of healthcare settings, bringing the best of their experiences together at GRACE. They also know the importance of family balance, being moms to a total of seven children! This shared commitment to family shapes GRACE as a place that truly cares for every patient.
What Can You Expect at GRACE?
Their mission is to provide quality breast care with a compassionate touch. Whether you are there for a 10-minute screening or a longer diagnostic session, their spa-like environment ensures a relaxing, supportive experience. They even offer spa services that can be bundled with imaging appointments to create a more comfortable and holistic approach to healthcare.
Screening and Diagnostic Results Timeline
- Screening Mammograms: Results are typically available within a few business days. They compare your results with previous imaging to increase accuracy and reduce unnecessary callbacks.
- Diagnostic Mammograms and Ultrasounds: You will receive your results before leaving the clinic, with time to discuss them with our radiologists.
- Biopsy: Biopsies are processed by Goldfinch Laboratory, providing preliminary results within 1-2 business days. This close collaboration with a specialized lab ensures accuracy and faster diagnosis.

Understanding Your Breast Cancer Risk
At GRACE, they calculate each patient’s risk using tools like the Tyrer-Cuzick risk calculator, which accounts for factors such as breast density—a major consideration for accurate risk assessment. In central Iowa, over 35% of women fall into the high-risk category for breast cancer, much higher than the national average of 10%. They encourage all women to know their risk by age 25 and periodically reevaluate, as risk factors can change.
The GRACE Difference
GRACE is the only breast imaging center in central Iowa where every patient is guaranteed care from a board-certified, fellowship-trained radiologist. They are here to guide you through an individualized screening plan in an environment designed to ease concerns and make each visit a positive experience. At GRACE, they believe that healthcare is self-care. By combining expert care with a soothing ambiance, they hope to make breast health part of a balanced, healthy life for Iowa’s women.

Ready to Take Charge of Your Breast Health?
At GRACE, they are committed to giving you expert care, personalized attention, and a supportive environment. Whether you need a screening, a diagnostic evaluation, or simply want to discuss your breast cancer risk, they are here to help you make informed, proactive decisions. To schedule an appointment or learn more about our services, reach out today.
Let’s make breast care an empowering and positive part of your life.
Erin Huiatt
Erin is a reliable resource and stepping stone for women and families to find support and make connections within our community. She wants families to feel confident to reach out and ask for help and advice to get pointed in the right direction. She enjoys traveling and exploring with her two children in tow!